Queensland

Parliamentary Debates [Hansard]

Legislative Assembly

WEDNESDAY, 26 APRIL 1978

Electronic reproduction of original hardcopy

Privilege [26 APRIL 1978] Brisbane Cricket Ground, &c., Bill 565

WEDNESDAY, 26 APRIL 1978 PETITION MANLY WEST STATE ScHOOL STORM-WATER DRAINAGE SYSTEM Mr. SHAW (Wynnum) presented a petition Mr. SPEAKER (Hon. J. E. H. Houghton, from 94 electors of Wynnum praying that Redcliffe) read prayers and took the chair the Parliament will take the necessary steps at 11 a.m. to construct an adequate storm-water drain­ age system from the Manly West State PAPERS School. The following paper was laid on the table, Petition read and received. and ordered to be printed:- Report of the Rural Reconstruction Board WORKERS' COMPENSATION ACT for the year ended 30 June 1977. AMENDMENT BILL The following papers were laid on the table:- INITIATION Proclamation under the Acquisition of Hon. F. A. CAMPBELL (Aspley-Minis­ Land Act 1967-1977 and the State ter for Labour Relations): I move- and Regional Planning and Develop­ "That the House will, at its present ment, Public Works Organization and sitting, resolve itself into a Committee of Environmental Control Act 1971- the Whole to consider introducing a Bill 1974. to amend the Workers' Compensation Act 1916-1974 in certain particulars and for Orders in Council under­ other purposes." Explosives Act 1952-1975. Motion agreed to. Harbours Act 1955-1976. Beach Protection Act 1968-1974. TRADE COUPONS ACT REPEAL BILL

INITIATION PRIVILEGE Hon. F. A. CAMPBELL (Aspley -Minis­ MINISTERIAL STATEMENT ON SELECTION OF ter for Labour Relations): I move- TARONG As SITE FOR NEw PowERHOUSE "That the House will, at its present sitting, resolve itself into a Committee of Mr. BURNS (Lytton-Leader of the the Whole to consider introducing a Bill Opposition) (11.5 a.m.): Mr. Speaker, I rise to repeal certain Acts passed by the Legis­ on a question of privilege. On Monday, 24 lature of Queensland." April, the deputy chairman of Millmerran Coal Pty. Ltd., Mr. Ian Howard-Smith, Motion agreed to. wrote to me in relation to the Premier's prepared ministerial statement to this Parlia­ ment on Tuesday, 18 April 1978. This letter RACING AND BETTING ACT asserts that part of the statement made by AMENDMENT BILL the Premier is incorrect and totally mis­ leading, and also talks about the Premier's INITIATION extending the truth to its limit. It makes Hon. W. E. KNOX (Nundah-Deputy a number of other assertions and implies Premier and Treasurer): I move- that the Premier deliberately set out to mis­ "That the House will, at its present lead or confuse the House on the very sitting, resolve itself into a Committee of important question of the site of Queens­ the Whole to consider introducing a Bill land's new multimillion-dollar powerhouse. As to amend the Racing and Betting Act this is a grave matter of privilege, I ask 1954-1977 in certain particulars." that it be referred to the Privileges Com­ mittee for investigation and report to this Motion agreed to. House. For the information of honourable members, I table a copy of the letter from Millmerran Coal. BRISBANE CRICKET GROUND ACT AMENDMENT BILL Whereupon the honourable gentleman laid the letter on the table. INITIATION Hon. W. E. KNOX (Nundah-Deputy Mr. Porter: What is the point of privilege? Premier and Treasurer): I move- "That the House will, at its present Mr. BURNS: Do they want me to debate sitting, resolve itself into a Committee of it, Mr. Speaker? the Whole to consider introducing a Bill to amend the Brisbane Cricket Ground Act Mr. SPEAKER: Order! There will be no 1958-1971 in certain particulars." debate on the question. Motion agreed to. 566 Questions Upon Notice [26 APRIL 1978] Questions Upon Notice

PETROLEUM PRODUCTS SUBSIDY ACT As the honourable member would be AMENDMENT BILL aware, my colleague the Honourable the Minister for Mines, Energy and Police is INITIATION vitally interested in the investigation of Hon. W. E. KNOX (Nundah-Deputy crime and the apprehension of offenders Premier and Treasurer): I move- and his Police Force has a primary "That the House will, at its present function in this regard. sitting, resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole to consider introducing a Bill to amend the Petroleum Products Subsidy 2. NEIGHBOURHOOD CONSTABLE ScHEME Act of 1965 in certain particulars." Mr. Akers, pursuant to notice, asked the Motion agreed to. Minister for Mines, Energy and Police--- (1) Has the effectiveness of the neigh­ bourhood constable scheme, which has LOCAL GOVERNMENT (ABORIGINAL been on trial for some years in Brisbane, LANDS) BILL been evaluated recently and, if so, what are the findings? INITIATION (2) Is it intended to extend the scheme Hon. R. J. HINZE (South Coast-Minis­ and, if so, will he consider establishing ter for Local Government and Main Roads): neighbourhood constables in areas such I move- as Bracken Ridge, Bald Hills, Albany "That the House will, at its present Creek and Samford? sitting, resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole to consider introducing a Bill Answers:­ to provide for Local Government (Abori­ (1) No. ginal Lands)." (2) Not at this stage. Motion agreed to.

QUESTIONS UPON NOTICE 3. BALD HILLS RAILWAY STATION; CROSSING GATES AND CAR-PARK 1. U.S. TECHNIQUES IN FIGHTING CRIME Mr. Akers, pursuant to notice, asked the Mr. Akers, pursuant to notice, asked the Minister for Transport- Minister for Justice and Attorney-General- (!) Will he further investigate the res­ (!) Has his attention been drawn to toration of railway crossing gates adjacent reports of a programme of concentration to the Bald Hills Railway Station to on major violators in fighting crime in enable this community to once again the United States of America, which has function as one unit and make it much been partly responsible for a reduction safer for elderly people and mothers with in big-city crime? prams to gain easy and safe access? (2) As it is reported that in Detroit (2) As there are many commuters from for the first six months of 1977 there areas to the north of Bald Hills using were reductions in major crime of 27 the car-park at that station, is it proposed per cent in murder and 25 per cent in each to extend this facility and, if so, when and of burglary and armed robbery and as this to what extent? programme concentrates on so-called "career criminals", such as those with Answers:­ repeated offences, and is gaining very high ( I) Yes. conviction rates by certain prosecutors being given specialised cases, is it intended (2) The Metropolitan Transit Authority to introduce such a system in Queensland? has awarded a contract to Messrs. Tetley and Murray for the addition of 63 car­ Answer:- parking bays to the existing facilities at Bald Hills, thereby making provision for (1 & 2) The programme referred to the parking of a total of 134 cars. Con­ has not yet been drawn to my attention. struction has commenced and is scheduled If the honourable member has any detailed for completion in mid-June of this year. information concerning the programme which he considers would prove of assis­ tance, I will be only too pleased to receive it. 4. PENSIONS AND STUDENT ALLOWANCES The present practice in Queensland in Mr. Hansen, pursuant to notice, asked respect of prosecution of offenders is for the Minister for Education- the cases to be considered in the light of (1) Is he aware that pensioner couples, their own particular circumstances. If though totally dependent on their pension, there is any special aspect in relation to are now being refused student allowances any prosecution, a prosecutor with the because the pension, through increases, expertise appropriate to the needs of the exceeds the means test applied by his case or type of offender is assigned. department? Questions Upon Notice (26 APRIL 1978] Questions Upon Notice 567

(2) When was the means test reviewed (a) It is, however, possible to provide in line with pension increases? approximate numbers of those closed down- (3) Will he introduce automatic increa"es in the means test commensurate For year ending 30-6-75 34 with pension increases so that this vital For year ending 30-6-76 32 assistance to secondary-school students may For year ending 30-6-77 19 be available to pensioners? For year to 31-3-78 18

Answers:- Total .. 103 (1) Assistance provided by the student allowance scheme is for parents who, by (b) Registrations for the same period Queensland standards, are financially dis­ were- advantaged. The Queensland standard is ending defined as the State Basic Wage as deter­ For year 30-6-75 23 mined from time to time by the State For year ending 30-6-76 49 Industrial Commission. The objective of For year ending 30-6-77 22 the scheme is to provide assistance for For year to 31-3-78 12 parents who, by comparison with the State Basic Wage, are financially disadvantaged, Total 106 to enable their children to obtain second­ ary education. Eligibility for the allow­ ance is therefore determined by comparing (2) The reasons butcher shops close the family income with the means test down are not recorded in my department. which is based on the State Basic Wage. (3) Proposals under consideration relate (2) The means test governing eligibility to the sale of packaged frozen meat. for student allowance has never been Packaging standards would be strictly reviewed in line with pension increases defined to ensure full protection of the because, as explained above, the level of meat contained therein. Preparation would the means test is linked to the State Basic take place in butcher shops which have Wage and not to pensions. However, the adequate packaging and freezing facilities. means test was adjusted on 1 January 1978 Raw frozen meat, so protected by adequate to take into account movements in the packaging, would then be able to be sold State Basic Wage and is reviewed annually in food stores in the same manner and along these lines. under the same controls as all other packaged frozen perishable food items­ (3) It is not proposed to depart from poultry, fish, ice cream, vegetables, cooked the principle of adjusting the means test meat, pizzas, pies and the like. for the student allowance in relation to the State Basic Wage.

6. FREEZING OF MULLET FILLETS 5. Mr. Hansen, pursuant to notice, asked the BUTCHER SHOPS Minister for Maritime Services and Tourism- Mr. Hansen, pursuant to notice, asked (!) Has his attention been drawn to the Minister for Primary Industries- an article in the February issue of "Aus­ (!) During each of the past five years, tralian Fisheries" regarding two methods how many (a) registered butcher shops of freezing mullet fillets without the have been closed and (b) new butcher problem of rancidity? shops have been registered? (2) As a large proportion of Queens­ (2) How many were closed owing to an land's fish catch is mullet, has his depart­ inability to maintain the health and hygiene ment investigated either of the methods? standards quite rightly insisted upon by his department? (3) Have any recommendations been made for the trial or the introduction (3) If grocers and proprietors of mixed of these methods of freezing by the stores are to be permitted to sell packs Queensland Fish Board? of meat, will the same standards be required as those that apply to butchers Answers:- and butcher shops and, if not, what are the reasons? (!) The Queensland Fish Board is aware of the article in the February issue of "Australian Fisheries". The article was Answers:- discussed by the writer, Mr. P. Davis, with the board's Manager for Production and (!) My department does not record the Development, Mr. M. A. Partis, before numbers of registered butcher shops closing it appeared in the above publication. The and opening, only the totals registered in problem of rancidity is overcome by a each year. complete waterglaze. 568 Questions Upon Notice [26 APRIL 1978] Questions Upon Notice

(2) The board is aware of the methods 8. DINGO BARRIER FENCE outlined in the article but the problems are overcome by the board's methods of Mr. Neal, pursuant to notice, asked the freezing. All fillets are processed with Minister for Lands, Forestry and Water the skin on and subjected to a complete Resources- waterglaze when frozen in moulds in the Cl) Is he aware that many stock owners plate freezers. A complete waterglaze within the protected area of the dingo has the same effect as vacuum packing. barrier fence are concerned because there (3) No. The present methods have has been a build-up of dingoes on Crown proven to be quite satisfactory. The lands adjacent to the fence, both outside board has already installed a patented and inside, the fence is not dog-proof in thawing unit, which is used for the con­ many places, and dingoes are regularly trolled thawing of fish and prawn products. getting through to kill stock and breed? (2) As such attacks on a continuing basis 7. BRUCELLOSIS PROTECTED AREA will force sheep and fat-lamb producers Mr. Neal, pursuant to notice, asked the out of such pursuits, and as land-owners Minister for Primary Industries- along the fence, who have assisted in its With the proposed expansion of the maintenance over the years and whose brucellosis protected area as from 1 May, properties provide a buffer zone for all what is the position of (a) landholders other land-owners, can ill afford the extra who have sent cattle on agistment from expense of necessary repairs, what properties within the proposed area to measures are being taken by the Govern­ other properties within the proposed area, ment to repair and maintain the fence both properties being regarded as suspect, in a dog-proof condition? prior to 1 May and who will wish to return them to their home property at (3) For each of the last five years, what a time after 1 May, owing to drought­ moneys were spent on maintenance of the declared conditions and (b) landholders in fence? the proposed area who have sent their cattle on agistment to suspect areas in New South Wales and wish to return Answers:- them to their home property, in similar (1) Any complaints received from land­ circumstances? holders concerned at the presence of dingoes on Crown-controlled lands adjacent Answer:- to the barrier fence are deaii with by (a) Breeding cattle moved to agistment Co-ordinating Board officers, by way of a on or after 1 May 1978 from suspect or "1080" baiting campaign, who rely on non-assessed properties within the protected adjoining landholders to co-operate in the area require a negative brucellosis test campaign. within 30 days of movement in order to establish their status and the future status It is well known that the fence is not of the receiving property. From clean entirely dog-proof_ In fact it has been herds no test is required. Movements estimated that it would cost in the vicinity to agistment from infected properties also of $3,500,000 to restore the fence through­ do not require testing, but movements to out its entire length. other than infected properties are being discouraged. (2) Maintenance of the fence is the Breeding cattle returning to home pro­ responsibility of boundary landholders on perties from infected, suspect or non­ the protected side of the fence, and yearly assessed properties will require a negative maintenance contributions are provided test within 30 days of movement regardless from the Barrier Fences Fund to assist in of when the original agistment movement this maintenance. The Barrier Fences occurred. The cost of test will be borne Fund is comprised of annual amounts by the scheme and compensation will be levied by relevant local authorities on all paid. landholders within the protected area. (b) Stock owners who moved cattle to agistment interstate before 1 May 1978 (3) Maintenance contributions made may return bona fide breeding stock to from the fund to boundary landholders for their home properties without brucellosis the past five years are as follows:- testing provided the cattle are conveyed 1973-74, $86,574; 1974-75, $115,690; throughout the Queensland segment of the 1975-76, $116,268; 1976-77, $73,088; journey. 1977-78, Maintenance payments not yet Such cattle moved on or after 1 May allocated. 1978 to interstate agistment on to other than known clean properties shall be sub­ In the same period the Government ject to a negative test prior to re-entry to expended $260,756 on flood damage restora­ Queensland. tion of the fence. Questions Upon Notice [26 APRIL 1978] Questions Upon Notice 569

'9. PSYCHIATRIC SERVICES IN NoRUI 11. GERIATRIC HOSPITAL, WYNNUM WEST QUEENSLAND Mr. Shaw, pursuant to notice, asked the Dr. Scott-Young, pursuant to notice, asked Minister for Health- the Minister for Health- (1) When is it proposed to open the When will he arrange for the Director new section of the geriatric hospital at of Psvchiatric Services and other respon­ Wynnum West, and how many beds will sible "officers to investigate the reported be available in this section? unrest between the psychiatric services (2) How many patients are currently and the community health services in the waiting for beds to be made available northern regions of the State? in this type of hospital, and how long would a patient applying now for admis­ sion expect to wait before a bed becomes Answer:- available? Senior departmental officers are at pre­ (3) What preference will be given to sent studying a report on the subject and local residents with a proven need for I will inform the honourable member of admission to the hospital? the outcome. Answers:- (!) Arrangements will be made for the 10. GUARD DoGs opening of Stage 2 of the Moreton Bay Mr. Shaw, pursuant to notice, asked the Nursing Care Unit as soon as possible Premier- after completion of all contract work in respect of the project. Occupancy will (!) Is he aware of advertisements offer­ take place on a staged basis and will ing guard dogs for hire for the purpose commence before 30 June 1978. Stage 2 of protecting business premises? will provide a total of 114 additional beds. (2) Are there any standards or qualifi­ (2) All new beds in the Stage 2 develop­ cations set down for the dogs or their ment will be allocated and occupied, but trainers? it will not be possible to satisfy every application received by the department for (3) In the event of any innocent person admission to this unit. The length of being injured by one of the dogs, does waiting time for admission to this unit, any legal liability rest with the property following its initial total occupancy, will owner, the occupier, or the person offering be governed by the availability of vacant the dog for hire? beds. (4) Does any responsibility rest with (3) Policy with respect to initial admis­ the trainer for injury caused by a guard sions to this unit ensures that the bona fide dog? needs of local residents will be fully acknowledged. (5) In view of serious injuries caused by guard dogs in the past, will his Govern­ ment ensure that this activity is properly controlled? 12. DANGER TO MOTORISTS FROM SHOOTING RANGE, MT. PETRIE ROAD Mr. Shaw, pursuant to notice, asked the Answer:- Premier- (! to 5) The use of guard dogs for the (!) Is he aware of a recent accident protection of business premises is not in another State in which a youth was presently the subject of any statutory law, injured by a bullet fired on an adjacent although, as an alderman of the Brisbane rifle range? City Council, the honourable member (2) Is he aware that Mt. Petrie should be aware that statutory provisions Road, which adjoins a shooting range in for Guard Dog Training Centres exist Brisbane, has been recently sealed and is under that council's ordinances. The being used increasingly by motorists? question of any legal liability is one which ( 3) As this road passes very close to would depend on particular facts and cir­ and behind an area used for firing rifles cumstances, and it is not possible to give and guns, will he have an investigation any precise answer on purely hypothetical carried out in order to establish if any bases. Persons affected by any action of danger exists to motorists and pedestrians guard dogs should seek their own legal using the road and, if so, what action advice. If the honourable member has should be taken to eliminate the danger? particulars of serious injuries inflicted by guard dogs, he might draw them to my Answers:- attention so that consideration could then (!) I understand a youth fishing in a be given to deciding what legislative action, prohibited area behind a rifle range in a if any, is desirable. southern State was injured recently. 570 Questions Upon Notice [26 APRIL 1978] Questions Upon Notice

(2) Yes. refrigerator, making it as difficult as (3) The layout of the Belmont Rifle possible for a child to reach the medicine. Range complex has been planned and I thank the honourable member for bring­ supervised by an Inspector of Rifle Ranges ing this to my notice, and the necessary appointed by the Commonwealth Govern­ health education will ensue. ment. It is located on Commonwealth (2) The National Therapeutic Goods land and is under the control of the Committee has agreed that the matter of Commonwealth. Safety standards applic­ child-resistant containers for medicines able to all public rifle ranges under the would be handled by the Commonwealth control of the Commonwealth apply. under the Therapeutic Goods Act with All ranges on the complex are so con­ complementary State legislation. As yet structed that missiles fired from the firing the Commonwealth has not made an order mounds are directed away from Mt. Petrie under its Act. Road and Old Cleveland Road, which (3) My department and the Poisons form the western and northern boundaries Information Centre are not aware of any respectively. I am informed that the con­ serious cases of child ingestion of medi­ trols exercised are such that no road user cines stored in refrigerators. is likely to be injured as a result of firing operations. 15. SIZE OF SCHOOL SWIMMING-POOLS Mr. I . .J. Gibbs, pursuant to notice, asked 13. AMBULANCE CENTRE, SPRINGWOOD the Minister for Education- (!) Is he aware that some schools with Mr. I . .J. Gibbs, pursuant to notice, asked fewer than 300 students would like to build the Minister for Health- a swimming-pool but do not have the Cl) When will tenders for the Spring­ necessary support to build a full-sized pool? wood ambulance centre be considered? (2) Will he consider aliowi!1g small (2) When will a decision be made to schools with a low growth potential to accept a tender? build 30 ft. by 15 ft. pools under the same subsidv as that which is available to larger Answers:- schoois? (1) Tenders which were received from the State Council of the Queensland Answer:- Ambulance Transport Brigade on 31 (! & 2) Yes. I am aware that this March 1978 have since been reviewed by problem exists. With a view to bringing the Department of Works and the report swimming-pools within the financial of that department is currently under con­ capability of a greater number and a sideration. wider range of schools, an inter-depart­ (2) I would anticipate that approval mental committee comprising representa­ for acceptance of a tender will be con­ tives of my department and the Depart­ veyed to State Council within a few days. ment of Works is at present examining a proposal that a pool smaller than the standard 25 m be approved for subsidy.

14. STORAGE OF MEDICINES OUT OF REACH oF CmLDREN 16. BEACH PROTECTION SUBSIDY Mr. I . .J. Gibbs, pursuant to notice asked Mr. Bishop, pursuant to notice, asked the the Minister for Health- ' Deputy Premier and Treasurer- (1) Is he aware that the directions on With reference to the annual report the labels of medicine sold by prescription of the Director-General of Tourist Services or over the counter to "keep out of reach for the year ended 30 June 1977, which of children" as well as "keep in the states under the heading "Beach Pro­ refrigerator" are difficult to adhere to? tection" that the authority believes that (2) Will he have investigated the pos­ the existing State subsidy of 20 per cent sibility of child-proof lids being used on will not offer sufficient encouragement to the containers for such medicines? local authorities to give reasonable priority to developments that will properly meet (3) Have any serious cases been the problem of beach protection, what reported of children taking medicine which action has been taken to increase the has to be kept in the refrigerator with State subsidy and, if none has been taken, everyday foodstuffs? when will it be taken?

Answers:- Answer:- (!) I agree with the honourable mem­ The subsidy which the State makes ber that there is a difficulty here. As it is available to local authorities for beach essential for the medicines to be stored protection works must be considered in at low temperatures, consideration should the context of the State's total commit­ be given to their placement in the ment in respect of subsidies to local bodies. Questions Upon Notice [26 APRIL 1978] Questions Upon Notice 571

One could no doubt single out any area Answer:- of local authority capital development and During the period 1 December 1977 to make the claim that a more desirable 21 April 1978, 21 police officers from the level of work would be carried out if the Gold Coast District performed temporary State subsidy level were higher. duty elsewhere in connection with demon­ Unfortunately the Government must strations on .two occasions, each being of ration the limited funds available to it one day's duration. On the other hand, towards meeting the many expenditure 29 r police officers from other districts per­ responsibilities which it has to face. Sub­ formed duty in the Gold Coast District sidies paid to local authorities have during the Christmas/New Year holiday increased from $18,900,000 in 1973-74 to period 1977-78 and 23 during the Easter an estimate of over $32,000,000 in 1977-78 holiday period 1978. These figures include and, in addition, local authorities have two members of the Licensing Branch and benefited from an annual allocation of two members of the Drug Squad. $5,000,000 from State funds on top of the tax-sharing grants made available to In addition to the Christmas/New Year them through the State from Common­ and Easter holiday periods, members of wealth sources. the Licensing Branch and Consorting Squad make regular visits to the Gold The State subsidy scheme for local Coast and the Task Force has also per­ authorities is presently being reviewed and formed duty in the district. . the level of subsidy payable in respect of beach protection works will be examined To extract information regarding costs in relation to the rates of subsidy presently would involve many man-hours of research payable in respect of other categories of and I do not propose to have this work works. undertaken.

17. LOCAL GOVERNMENT GRANTS FOR TOURlST FACILITIES 19. JURY FEES Mr. Bishop, pursuant to notice, asked the Mr. Fouras, pursuant to notice, asked the Deputy Premier and Treasurer- Minister for Justice and Attorney-{]eneral- With reference to the annual report of (1) Is he aware of the problems being the Director-General of Tourist Services experienced by workers who are called for the year ended 30 June 1977, in which up for jury service as a result of the low it is stated that the Local Government fees paid for this community service? Grants Commission might take into (2) Will he as a matter of urgency account the expense incurred by councils order a complete review of the fees for this in providing facilities for day trippers, service? who place pressure on facilities such as roads, parking space, toilet blocks, parks and foreshores, and who, in comparison Answer:- with longer-term visitors, add little to local authorities' financial resources, has (1 & 2) The scale of fees payable to the Grants Commission been asked to jurors is being reviewed at present with a take these matters into consideration and, view to recommending an increase. if not, will he request the commission to do so? Answer:- 20. STATEMENT BY PROFESSOR EDNA CHAMBERLAIN ON SPECIAL EDUCATION The expense incurred by councils in ·respect of day trippers was taken into Mr. Fouras, pursuant to notice, asked the consideration by the Local Government Minister for Welfare- Grants Commission when determining (!) Is he aware of the statement by recommendations for grants allocated early Professor Edna Chamberlain at the in 1977-78 and no doubt the commission Queensland University Schonell Education will continue .to be mindful of this aspect Research Centre's Eighth Annual Confer­ when determining further recommenda­ ence on special education, that greater tions. collaboration among medical, educational and welfare services would help those people most in need of the services? 18. TRANSFER OF GOLD CoAST POLICE FOR STREET MARCH DUTIES (2) Is it true, as Professor Chamberlain stated, that children from deprived homes Mr. Bishop, pursuant to notice, asked the too often miss out on services available Minister for Mines, Energy and Police- in all three fields whilst children from Since 1 December 1977, how many middle-class backgrounds are able to take police from the Gold Coast Police District advantage of educational and health ser­ have been transferred from normal duties vices because they have parents who to street march work outside the district, recognise their problem and know where and what was the cost involved? help is available? 572 Questions Upon Notice [26 APRIL 1978] Questions Upon Notice

(3) Has any action been taken on the themselves exist, I believe, because of mis­ suggestion that social workers should work understandings about the role of each closely with medical practitioners and profession. educationists to improve the collabora­ These misunderstandings can only be tion among education, medicine and cleared up if there is adequate communi­ welfare at all levels? cation between the three. To facilitate this communication, there is an inter­ Answer:- departmental Committee for Welfare under (! to 3) I am aware that the Schonell the chairmanship of the under secretary, Education Research Centre's Eighth the permanent head of my department, on Annual Conference was on the theme, \\ hich not only Health, Education and Medicine, Education and Welfare. My the Children's Services Departments are colleagues the Minister for Health, the represented, but also a number of other Honourable L. R. Edwards, M.B., B.S., departments. My colleague the Minister M.L.A., and the Minister for Education, for Education has an Advisory Council on the Honourable V. J. Bird, M.L.A., took Special Education on which my depart­ part in the opening ceremony. Because ment is represented by the Director, of another engagement I was unable to Department of Children's Services. It is attend and I was represented at the open­ felt that these bodies present opportun­ ing ceremony by the Director, Depart­ ities for greater appreciation of each ment of Children's Services. other's problems and increased co-ordin­ ation and co-operation. The director took part in a number of workshops and also gave one of the clos­ I would venture to say that there is a ing addresses. I am advised that Dr. Simon greater need for co-operation between Latham, Deputy Superintendent of the the three professional groups, but it seems Royal Children's Hospital spoke for the to me that this is also a matter for indi­ medical profession, Mr. Geoff Swann viduals and for professional associations. spoke on behalf of education and Mr. I, as Minister for Welfare, and the Gov­ Plummer spoke on behalf of the Depart­ ernment, have lent and will continue to ment of Welfare Services at the closing lend full support to co-operation. session.

In reply to the first part of the question, 21. WARREGO HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENTS I would state that my department is aware of the need for greater collaboration Mr. Gunn, pursuant to notice, asked the between medicine, education and welfare Minister for Local Government and Main and that the participation of officers in Roads-- my department in the conference indicates As the four-lane section of the Warrego this awareness. Highwav has now reached the crossroads Referring to the second part of the at Glenore Grove near Laidley Creek, question by the honourable member, the are there any plans to continue the four proceedings of the conference have not lanes to Gatton and, if so, when will yet been published so I am not aware of work begin and what is the estimated cost? what Professor Chamberlain stated, nor for that matter can I be sure that he has Answer:- represented her views correctly. How­ There are no plans to continue the four ever, it is quite well known and well lanes to Gatton. Alternative strategies for reported in the literature that children improvements to this section of the high­ from "middle-class backgrounds", as he way are at present under considerati?n. describes them, are able to take advantage The level of funding which can consist­ of education and health services, mainly ently be made available for work on this for the reasons he has outlined in the important highway could well decide which question. alternative strategy should be adopted. In order to help the more disadvantaged All alternative strategies include a by­ members of the community, both the pass of Gatton, the location of which is present and former Director, Department substantially fixed. The funds available of Children's Services, have stressed the for development of the bypass are limited need for decentralisation of services. I to the extent that acquisition of property would draw attention to the remarks of for the bypass is the only activity which the present director in his report recently can be financed for the term of the current tabled in this House. The director has Commonwealth roads legislation, which stressed the need for "an available ser­ expires on 30 June 1980. vice" and a "sympathetic, compassionate service". In these views, the director In the meantime reconstruction of the most certainly has my support. pavement on a section west of Gatton will be undertaken as the next project on Referring now to the third section of the highway in this vicinity. This work the question, co-operation between educa­ will be required regardless of the decision tion, medicine and welfare can only be which has yet to be made regarding achieved by a breaking down of the tradi­ upgrading of the highway between Laidley tional status barriers. These status barriers and Gatton. Questions Upon Notice [26 APRIL 1978] Questions Upon Notice 573

22. HousiNG CoMMissioN AcQUISITION oF few days in February. Of those who LAND IN NANANGO are billed quarterly some will pay from a date late in December. This is because Mr. Gunn, pursuant to notice, asked the it is not possible to read every meter Minister for Works and Housing- on the same day. There is just no method As it will be necessary to build a large of adjustment, even by means of a for­ number of houses in Nanango owing to mula, that is absolutely equitable to all the projected increase in population as the consumers." Tarong project gets under way, has the Housing Commission acquired land in (4 & 5) See answer to (3). Nanango and, if not, will he see that land is acquired as soon as possible as the demand for land in that area is increasing? 24. UNSOLICITED ADVERTISING RESOURCES BROCHURES IN MAIL BoXES Answer:- Mr. Gygar, pursuant to notice, asked the As the honourable member will appreci­ Minister for Labour Relations- ate, the commission was unable to make (!) Is he aware of the growing number any move until it knew where the new of complaints by citizens about the number powerhouse would be. Following Cabinet's of unsolicited advertising brochures being recent determination, it is canvassing the dropped into letter-boxes in the metro­ market for land for general purpose politan area and that often so many of housing. these are deposited that there is no room for the mail? (2) Is he aware of the activities of direct-mail sales groups who badger people 23. S.E.Q.E.B. ELECTRICITY TARIFFS with mailed circulars peddling subscriptions Mr. Gygar, pursuant to notice, asked the to books or catalogues of goods? Minister for Mines, Energy and Police- (3) Are these considered to be desirable (!) Has his attention been drawn to practices and, if not, is there any way irregularities in recent electricity accounts by which householders can preserve their issued by S.E.Q.E.B.? mailboxes from the streams of unwanted rubbish? (2) Why was the normal 90-day account period recently extended to 102 days in Answer:- many cases? (1 to 3) The activities to which the (3) Is it a mere coincidence that this honourable member refers are recognised extended period meant that many accounts practices in today's retailing and as one that would normally have been calculated who, occasionally, engages in this practice, on readings taken before 1 April were I am aware of the complaints. It should calculated on readings after that date and also be remembered that there are many therefore liable to the higher tariff charges? persons who are somewhat confined to (4) Will S.E.Q.E.B. gain up to their residence and this could be regarded $100,000 in extra tariffs because of this as a very worthwhile service. fiddle? I would point out to the honourable (5) Who in S.E.Q.E.B. was respon­ member that all prospective political can­ sible for extending the accounts period didates engage in this practice, and I in this underhanded way, and what action am sure that the House would not desire does he propose to take over this matter? to limit this activity.

Answers:- 25. ITINERANT PAINT FIRMS (1) I have heard some complaints about the date of application. Mr. Wilson, pursuant to notice, asked the (2) I am assured by the board that Minister for Labour Relations- there was no deliberate action to extend (!) Will he have an immediate inves­ the reading periods. Surely the honour­ tigation carried out into the itinerant paint able member knows that wet weather and firms known as Therma Tex Paints Pty. public holidays normally cause meter Ltd., Vynafiex (Australasia) Pty. Ltd. and reading dates to vary slightly from the Festa Constructions Pty. Ltd. Brisbane, as normal 90-day period. complaints are being made in the Towns­ (3) If this, in fact, happened, it was ville area that (a) pensioners are being a coincidence. There was no fiddle. I pressured into entering into contracts for am told that every possible action was up to $2,500 to have the exterior of their taken to avoid cause for complaint by houses painted, (b) moneys paid by way consumers. In my reply to the hon­ of deposits are not being lodged in trust ourable member for Nudgee in this House accounts as required under the Contractors' on 18 April 1978, I made the point Trust Accounts Act, (c) warranties adver­ that "Some consumers who are billed tised in brochures as being on both products monthly will be paying higher tariffs in and workmanship are found to be on the respect of electricity used since the last paint product only, (d) contracts are being 574 Questions Upon Notice [26 APRIL 1978] Questions Upon Notice

backdated and (e) initial approaches by may not continue in business and be able the firms are being made by telephone to honour these warranties. Furthermore, to get around the seven-day cooling-off before entering into any contract for house­ period prescribed in the Door to Door coating, cladding or roof-painting, consum­ (Sales) Act? ers should never act in haste but give (2) What is the link between Excelsior themselves plenty of time to consider all Finance Pty. Ltd. and the paint firms? aspects. (3) What interest is being charged by this firm? ( 4) Who are the principals of Excelsior 26. HousiNG CoMMISSION HoMES, Finance Pty. Ltd. and the paint firms? TowNsVILLE (5) How many complaints has the Mr. Wilson, pursuant to notice, asked the Consumer Affairs Bureau received con­ Minister for Works and Housing- cerning firms in which Mr. Tony Festa is (!) How many famili~s are on. ~he involved? waiting list for a Housmg Commrsswn house in Townsville? Answers:- (2) How many commission houses are (!) The firms Fibreline Industries, Festa vacant in Garbutt? Constructions Pty. Ltd., Vynafiex (Aus­ (3) Did these houses become vacant tralasia) Pty. Ltd. and Thermotex Paints following the transfer of the R.A.A.F Pty. Ltd. are well known to the Consumer Neptune squadron from Garbutt? Affairs Bureau, with Mr. A. Festa being involved in each company. I would also ( 4) Are the houses still under lease mention that Mr. Festa is a director of to the R.A.A.F. and, if so, has there Excelsior Finance Pty. Ltd. been any move by his department to have these houses released to enable them to (a) I am unaware of pensioners being be rented by the civilian population? pressured into entering contracts. However, if the honourable member supplies me with (5) How many commission houses are substantiated details, I will certainly have there in Wulguru, and how many are these investigated. available for rental? (b) This is not a matter coming within (6) How many commissio~ h~mses and my jurisdiction and should be directed to pensioner units are to be bmlt m Towns­ the Minister for Justice and Attorney­ ville this year? General. (c) If the honourable member supplies Answers:- me with specific substantiated details, I The problems of vacant Defence Ser­ will have these investigated. vices houses in Townsville and of Towns­ (d & e) These practices, although not ville housing needs generally, have been condoned, do not prevent a person from discussed with me by the honourable exercising his rights under the Door to member for Townsville West, Mr. M. D. Door (Sales) Act. It should be noted here Hooper. He has been pressing to have that the Act specifically states that the the Commonwealth occupy its vacant seven-day cooling-off period commences houses or return them to the commission on the day next after the day on which the for general letting. prospective bailee or purchaser receives The detailed answers to the points raised the copy of the agreement or offer. by the question are- (2) See answer to (1). (1) With priority 75; without priority (3) I am advised that the interest charged 166. by Excelsior Finance Pty Ltd. is at the (2) The position varies as personnel rate of 16 per centum per annum move in and out, but at present the calculated on monthly balances. number is 40 to 50. (4) Fibreline Industries, A. Festa, V. J. (3) Defence Department's reasons for Festa; Festa Constructions Pty. Limited, personnel changes are not known in detail. A. Festa, V. J. Festa; Vynafiex (Austral­ Only a Commonwealth Minister can answer asia Pty. Limited, A. Festa, V. J. Festa; precisely. Thermotex Paints Pty. Limited, A. Festa, ( 4) Houses are still leased and rent is V. J. Festa; Excelsior Finance Pty. Limited, being paid by the Commonwealth. As I A. Festa, V. J. Festa, 11th Floor, Avia­ said before, Mr. Hooper has been as tion House, Wickham Street, Fortitude seriously disturbed as I am about the lack Valley; J. A. Hogan, L. D. Bowden, Care of occupants. The Housing Commission of Bowdens, Solicitors, I.A.C. Building, 217 has been pressing the Commonwealth for George Street, Brisbane. advice of its intentions. Officers from (5) 218. At this point I can only several departments in Canberra recently reiterate my previous warnings to consum­ visited Townsville to report. The commis­ ers that they should be wary of firms sion has had no further word, even though offering long-term warranties as these firms it demanded urgent advice. As recently as Questions Upon Notice [26 APRIL 1978] Questions Upon Notice 575

last Friday there appeared to be movement Preference provisions are included in of the Army into vacated R.A.A.F. houses, departmental specifications for supply only although there is no official word from contracts or supply and installation con­ Canberra. tracts when the material content forms a (5) 92 houses of which 39 are for large percentage of the tendered figure. I general rental, 19 under employer tenancy cite as examples most electrical and rental and 34 under purchase. mechanical installations. (6) Programmes approved to June 1978 In the case of an approved subcontract provide for 116 houses and eight pensioner for building works in general, where the units. head contractor selects a subcontractor of his choice, my department does not inter­ The 1978-79 programme has not been fere if the subcontractor is acceptable to finalised. the department. My department is not aware of any 27. SELECTION OF TARONG AS SITE FOR nominated subcontractors from the South NEW POWER-STATION being accepted in its recent building con­ tracts. Mr. Wilson, pursuant to notice, asked the Minister for Mines, Energy and Police-

As the Premier in an answer to me 29. COMMONWEALTH TARIFFS AND on 12 April stated that the site for the QuoTAS AccouNT next thermal station will be determined on the relevant economics as they apply Mr. Austin, pursuant to notice, asked the at that stage, was the decision to erect Deputy Premier and Treasurer- a multimillion-dollar powerhouse at Cl) Is he aware that at present the Tarong made on economic considerations Tariffs and Quotas Account of the Com­ or is there one set of rules for North monwealth Government accounts for Queensland and another for South nearlv $4 000 million subsidv in protection Queensland? and that 'between 85 and 9o per cent of that subsidy in protection accrues to Answer:- industrial establishments in Victoria, South The decision on the establishment of a Australia and New South Wales? power-station at Tarong was made by the Government after taking into account all (2) What steps can he take to ensure relevant factors, including economic con­ that the Commonwealth Grants Commis­ siderations. If, in future studies, offers sion takes these factors into account when are received for coal at the right price assessing its allocation of funds to the and other important factors that have to States? be taken into account in establishing such a project are favourable, there is no reason Answer:- why a major power-station should not be (1 & 2) I am very much aware that built in North Queensland. the burden of the effect of tariff and quota protection implemented by the 28. PREFERENCE TO QUEENSLAND Federal Government falls very heavily BUILDING SUBCONTRACTORS upon the residents of States which engage to a greater degree in mining and primary Mr. Austin, pursuant to notice, asked the industry pursuits. That this is the case Minister for Works and Housing- is one of the main arguments in favour (!) Is he aware that, in recent building of the existing arrangements whereby the contracts let by his department to stimulate less populous States receive higher per the building industry, some subcontract capita grants out of Commonwealth work to the contracts which could be revenues than do the States which are carried out by Queensland firms, is being strong in their industrial base. The let to firms in southern States? methods used bv the Commonwealth Grants Commission do to some extent take (2) Will he take the necessary steps to this factor into account in that the recom­ amend departmental specifications so that mended grant includes an element to offset the preference clauses prohibit the use of Queensland's lower taxable capacity southern subcontractors when experienced as compared with New South Wales and Queensland subcontractors are available? Victoria. This lower taxable capacity results partly from the adverse effects of Answer:- the protection policies referred to by the ( I & 2) Under present policy decisions honourable member. However, the Com­ preference is not applied to construction monwealth Grants Commission confines its contracts except with respect to nominated comparisons wholly to Government revenue subcontracts which are included in the and expenditure needs, and it would not main contract. In accordance with this be appropriate to ask the commission to policy preference proviSIOns are not recommend a grant which goes further included in specifications for building than compensating the State for its dis­ works. abilities at a Government level. 576 Questions Upon Notice [26 APRIL 1978] Questions Upon Notice

30. LAND VALUATION OBJECTIONS 31. DIFFERENTIAL LOCAL AUTHORITY RATING Mr. Milliner, pursuant to notice, asked the Minister for Survey and Valuation- Mr. Milliner, pursuant to notice, asked Over the preceding 12 months, what the Minister for Local Government and was the total number of objections Main Roads- received by the Valuer-General in relation Cl) Has he considered introducing dif­ to the unimproved value of land and ferential rating in Queensland and, if so, from which shires did the objections will this lead to higher costs throughout originate? the community and will it give councils more flexibility in budgeting? Answer:- (2) Are any other Governments using the differential rating system? The Valuer-General's 1977 revaluation programme involved the issue of 155,248 notices of valuation in the cities of Bun­ Answers:- daberg, Cairns, Ipswich, Rockhampton (!) The question of the granting of and Townsvi!le, the town of Roma and power to local authorities in Queensland the shires of Allora, Ayr, Beaudesert, to make and levy differential rates has Biggenden, Boulia, Broadsound, Burke, Cambooya, Clifton, Cook, Eacham, Hin­ been considered. The Queensland Local chinbrook, Kilkivan, Livingstone, Millmer­ Government Act 1936-1977 already makes ran, Moreton, Murweh, Nebo, Peak provision for the making and levying by Downs, Perry, Widgee and Woocoo. local authorities of certain types of differen­ tial rates for example, urban and rural The elaborate objection procedure of the rates, sep~rate rates for partic~la.r functions Valuer-General's Department is an import­ of local government, and mm1mum gen­ ant safeguard to ensure the accuracy of eral rates. Any extension of the powers these valuations. Property owners faced of local authorities in this direction would with new valuations are given 60 days involve amendments of the Act and it from the date of issue of their valuation would be improper for me to speculate notice to lodge an objection with the thereon at this juncture. Valuer-General. The owner may also request a conference with an officer of (2) I understand that local aut?orities the Valuer-General's Department to dis­ in New Zealand, South A~straha and cuss his or her valuation. These con­ New South Wales have certam powers to ferences are intended to be full, frank make and levy differential rates. and free discussions which give both parties an opportunity to present their views with a minimum of inconvenience to the property owner. 32. MITCHELTON POLICE STATION The objector is notified in writing of Mr. Milliner, pursuant to notice, ~sked the Valuer-General's decision. A further the Minister for Mines, Energy and Police- 60 days is allowed for an owner still dissatisfied with the Valuer-General's In view of the size of the Mitchelton decision to lodge an appeal with a com­ police district, will he upgrade the pletely independent tribunal, the Land Mitchelton Police Station to a 24-hour station and provide additional staff? Court., Once i~ court, the property owner s own barnster can cross-examine the department's valuer and make him Answer:- justify the valuation of the property in The claims of Mitchelton police division questiOn. for additional staff will be considered, in It is interesting to note that after all conjunction with those of other di:'i~ions the objection conferences were heard last for increases in strength, when additiOnal financial year, the Valuer-General had a personnel are available. Apart from. pe~­ success rate of 99.96 per cent. The sonnel stationed at Mitchelton, attentiOn IS reductions by the Land Court during the given to the division by mobile patrols on last financial year amounted to about a a 24 hours per day basis. C.I. Branch and thirtieth of one per cent of the total Traffic Branch personnel also perform duty amount of valuations subject to objection in the division as required. It is considered and appeal. that the police service provided is adequate Up to the present date this financial at this stage. yea~, 17,912 objections have been lodged agamst the new valuations. Despite the issue of 155,248 notices of valuations 33. SHORTAGE OF RENTAL AccoMMODATION only 11.58 per cent of these valuation~ have been objected to. The time of Mr. Doumany, pursuant to notice, asked lodgment of valid objections in all but the Deputy Premier and Treasurer- two of the local authorities mentioned has expired. Objections close in the (!) Is he aware of an address by the shires of Boulia and Peak Downs on 15 Commonwealth Construction Minister, Mr. May 1978. McLeay, to the Institution of Surveyors Questions Upon Notice [26 APRIL 1978] Questions Upon Notice 577

in Adelaide in which Mr. McLeay referred Answers:~ to the growing shortage of rental accom­ (I) Progress has been achieved in areas modation in Australia and to the par­ which are expected to contribute to ticular example of this problem and its improved returns to cattle producers. associated evil of blackmarket practices in South Australia, where rigid rent control At a meeting of the Australian Agri­ prevails? cultural Council on Friday, 14 April, agreement was reached which will lead (2) Will he consider all possible ways to the introduction of an interim object­ and means of encouraging private invest­ ive system of carcass classification. ment to improve the supply of rental accommodation in Queensland? With this hurdle overcome, I hope that positive progress will be achieved at the (3) Will he also give an assurance that national level in introducing stabilisation in the face of misinformed pressures to arrangements involving a buffer fund con­ introduce rent control, he will direct the cept, in the first instance. efforts of this State towards those positive and rational measures that will encourage Agreement by the Commonwealth Gov­ supply to meet the rising demand? ernment and State Governments to a realistic beef industry stabilisation scheme is considered to be of prime importance Answers:­ by the Queensland Government. (!) Yes. In addition to the above measures, plan­ (2 & 3) Private investment is encouraged ning has reached an advanced stage within in all manner of ways in Queensland. my department leading towards the intro­ duction of a meat and livestock market In the housing field, it has long been a reporting programme. The objective of policy of this Government to encourage this programme is to provide to producers home-ownership but naturally a stock of regular, timely, accurate and unbiased rental accommodation is also needed. price and market information on livestock Without the avenues of direct control and carcass sales. It is expected that this in this area, such as control over interest type of information will enable producers rates and over the amount of finance to be better informed as to precisely available for investment in rental accom­ what is happening in the market so that modation, the Government took action in they will be able to make improved man­ the 1960s to dismantle the rent control agement decisions. mechanisms which used to exist in Queens­ I would remind the honourable mem­ land. ber that legislation was introduced during The results of the gradual abolition the closing stages of the last Parliament of rent control were an impressive increase to establish the Queensland Meat Industry in flat unit buildings. This upsurge is still Organisation and Marketing Authority continuing at a reasonable rate. with the necessary legislative powers to take immediate steps to improve the Furthermore, indicators such as the "To economic position of livestock producers, Let" columns in newspapers, which show especially beef producers, once the neces­ a considerable amount of rental housing sary national agreement can be reached. is available, and the much reduced rental demand on the Housing Commission in Mr. Casey interjected. most centres, but particularly in the major metropolitan market, confirm the adequacy of the present number of rental dwellings. Mr. SULLIVAN: The honourable mem­ ber should talk to some of his Labor mates Therefore, although I share the viev.: in other States and tell them to take a of Mr. McLeay in regard to the harmful leaf out of Queensland's book. effects of rent control on the house rental market, his contention that there is a grow­ ing shortage of rental accommodation in Answers (contd.) :- Australia is not supported by the Queens­ (2) In relation to the operation of the land position. meat-marketing chain, it is my belief that the total problem cannot be laid at the door-step of any one component of the marketing chain. 34. CATTLE PRICES Large wage increases over recent years Mr. Lester, pursuant to notice, asked the have placed a heavy burden on the oper­ Jv!inister for Primary Industries- ation of the total marketing chain includ­ (!) What action does the Government ing the cost of transportation, handling, propose to help increase the price of cattle slaughtering and processing of livestock. for the producer? The tragedy of the situation is that while (2) What can be done to stop major consumers, meat companies, transport meat companies effectively holding down operators and especially the various wage the price to producers, while the meat earners involved are all maintaining a very companies continue to make record profits? comfortable share of the money cake, the 61215-19 578 Questions Upon Notice [26 APRIL 1978] Questions Without Notice

producers, at the start of the marketing (3) A number of initiatives are being chain, have had their relative financial implemented through the Priority Country position very seriously eroded. Area Programme. All are intended to pro­ In this regard, my department will be vide better educational services to the presenting evidence before the Prices children in our remote country areas. All Justification Tribunal in its forthcoming of the initiatives undertaken so far, I investigation of the various charges and believe, are both original and progressive. margins applying at every stage in the I feel, however, that it is too early to say beef marketing chain. which has been the most successful. In reply to the interjection made earlier by the honourable member for Mackay, I might comment that all these problems QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE of costs within the primary sector began under none other than Gough Whitlam. DRILLING RIG HIRED BY HOUSTON OIL A::-.JIJ MINERALS AUST. INC. Mr. BURNS: I preface a question without 35. PROMOTION OF QUEENSLAND GEMS notice to the Minister for Mines, Energy Mr. Lester, pursuant to notice, asked the and Police by referring to an article in thi5 Minister for Mines, Energy and Police-- week-end's "National Times" headed "More Cross-fire in Joh's Feud" dealing with hi~ In view of depressed gem prices, will statement in the House on the statutory our Ministers, when they go overseas pro­ declaration by Mr. Wemer about the moting Queensland goods, also promote Premier's association with Houston Oil and Queensland gems, which I am told are Minerals Aust. Inc. I now ask: Is it true, the best in the world? as stated in the article, that in June 1977 Answer:- Mr. Hope of Houston Oil and Minerals, who is mentioned in the Minister's statement, was I cannot speak for other Ministers, but the then chief engineer and co-ordinator during official visits that I have made with Consolidated Goldfields in Sydney, and overseas I have always promoted Queens­ that Mr. Denis Benbow was the chief land gems and have taken selected speci­ executive of Houston Oil in that year? Ag mens with me to assist this promotion. Mr. Hope could not have given the Minister I shall continue to do so in any future an answer or been in a position to talk 1o overseas visits. Mr. Bjelke-Petersen on behalf of Houston Oil, and as Mr. Benbow would have been the person concerned, will he now contact 36. MOBILE SCHOOL FOR CENTRAL Mr. Benbow and follow up the very serious QUEENSLAND allegations that have been made by Mr. Mr. Lester, pursuant to notice, asked the Werner in the statutory declaration tabled in Minister for Education- the House? (!) What progress is being made in relation to a mobile school to serve Mr. CAMM: I have not read the article, parents and children in isolated areas of and I have no intention of commenting on Central Queensland? supposition by the Leader of the Opposition on an article alleged to be written in some (2) What advantage will this school have newspaper. for these children? (3) Is this the most progressive pro­ Mr. Bjelke-Petersen: You are always posal yet seen in providing better education wrong. for country children? Mr. BURNS: I don't think I am wrong, Answers:- Joh. I think you've had the hand in the till, to be quite truthful-very heavily in ( I) It is expected that the mobile class­ the till. You'll get caught one of these day~ room will commence operation in the with your hand in the till. Central Queensland Priority Country Area towards the end of May. Construction of Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: I rise to a the class-room, which is being mounted point of order. The honourable gentle­ on a truck chassis, is proceeding satis­ man made the statement that I have alwa:ys factorily. Equipment for the class-room, got my hand in the till. He was the one which will include television video who was fined for S.P. betting. I have never recorders, is being assembled, and the been fined for S.P. betting. I ask for a necessary staff allocated. complete apology and withdrawal, immed­ (2) The mobile class-room is designed iately. to provide children on correspondence courses with experience of a normal class Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The Premier has situation, to reinforce the activities of the taken a point of order on a statement that Primary Correspondence School, and to was objectionable to him. I agree entirely. assist in the identification of learning I ask for a withdrawal. problems in children on correspondence courses. Mr. BURNS: I withdraw. Matters of Public Interest [26 APRIL 1978] Matters of Public Interest 579

Mr. B.JELKE-PETERSEN: And apologise. Mr. K. J. Hooper: Where was this? I ask for an apology from the honourable gentleman. Mr. AUSTIN: In Milan, Italy. Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The Premier The plant manufactured a substance named seeks an apology. trichlorophenol, commonly known as TCP, and another substance named hexachloro­ Mr. BURNS: I do not think that it is phene. TCP is used in the manufacture of required by Standing Orders that I apologise 2,4,5-T. Suddenly a huge grey cloud spewed to the Premier. I have withdrawn the out of the plant. The cloud contained partic­ statement. les of one of the deadliest poisons known to man. Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The honourable gentleman made the statement that the Mr. K. J. Hooper interjected. Premier had his hand in the till. I agree that that would be objectionable. I would Mr. AUSTIN: I remind the honourable give the honourable gentleman the same member for Archerfield that this is not a privilege and the same opportunity as the joke. Premier. I believe that the Premier is entitled People in the city broke out in unsightly to an apology. In the proceedings of the rashes, and birds, farm animals, trees and House things are said on the spur of the plants died. moment, and I think the Leader of the A malfunction in the plant had caused Opposition should apologise. the TCP to be heated to over 200°C. When Mr. BURNS: Very well, Mr. Speaker, in that happens a substance called dioxin is deference to you as the Speaker-"! am formed. Dioxin is one of the most lethal sorry, Joh." chemicals known to man. One-half of a gram of TCP is enough to kill one guinea pig and dioxin is 2,000,000 times stronger AUSTRALIAN DOMESTIC SUGAR PRICE than TCP. At the time, more than 100 expectant Mr. ROW: I ask the Minister for Prim­ mothers were living in the town. They were ary Industries: Are negotiations continuing presented with the cruel fact that laboratory between the State and Commonwealth animals displayed embryo malformations at Governments with a view to reaching a dioxin concentrations as low as 0.05 parts satisfactory settlement in the matter of the per million. At that stage the effect on the domestic price of Australian sugar? human foetus was unknown. What is known Mr. SULLIVAN: Yes, negotiations are now is that one of the first six babies continuing. Last Saturday in Oakey I had born after the incident suffered from severe discussions with the Federal Minister for malformations of the stomach. The chemicals Primary Industry, Mr. Sinclair, prior to his 2,4,5-T and 2,4-D contain TCP. They are departure overseas, and on Monday after­ weed-killers used to inhibit the growth of noon the secretary of the Department of selected plants and weeds. It is a trans­ Primary Industry, his senior officer con­ located herbicide that is effective against cerned with sugar marketing and an officer roots or other organs of selective plant of the Bureau of Agricultural Economics species to which it is transformed from the met with the Chairman of the Sugar Board, treated above-ground surfaces. These chemi­ an officer of my department and industry cals, 2,4,5-T and 2,4-D are classified as mod­ officers. They will be reporting to the Min­ erately persistent chemicals in that they have ister for Primary Industry. I will be having a life of from one to 18 months. International discussions with my officers and negotiations evidence suggests that 2,4,5-T often contains will go on from there. impurities, and the impurities occur in manu· facture. The one thing that is clear is that Mr. SPEAKER: Order! Under the Ses­ these impurities are mainly dioxins. sional Order agreed to by the House, the The 1977 report of the Department of time allotted for questions has now expired. Primary Industries states that the Agri­ cultural Chemical Distribution Control Board is "concerned by the problems of drift dam­ MATTERS OF PUBLIC INTEREST age which occurs with the use of 2,4-D and DIOXIN AND HERBICIDES 2,4,5-T AND 2,4-D 2,4,5-T." I am not sure what the phrase "problems of drift" means. I presume it Mr. AUSTIN (Wavell) (12.1 p.m.): I was means problems with other vegetation. There pleased to hear the honourable member for appears to be no mention in the report of Salisbury ask a question about the topic I the problems to human beings and our wish to raise today as a matter of public environment. interest. I ask honourable members to Both 2,4,5-T and 2,4-D are widely cast their minds back about two years to used in the urban area. They are available what happened on Saturday, 10 July 1976, at in small quantities from local produce stores a factory in Milan, Italy. The last shift had and hardware stores and may in fact be closed down at 6 a.m. and about 160 purchased at some supermarkets. Local employees were engaged on maintenance and authorities in Queensland and Government dean-up work. departments, including the Main Roads 580 Matters of Public Interest [26 APRIL 1978] Matters of Public Interest

Department and the Railways Department, 1963 amendment did not alter anything use 2,4,5-T and 2,4-D in weed-eradication fundamental, even by way of preambles programmes. They are used on roads, rail­ to sections. Within the framework of an ways, along footpaths in suburbs and around Act which does not mention them, Depart­ schools. They were used as defoliants in the ment of Primary Industries officers are Vietnam war. Possible exposure of expectant now confronted by a variety of problems mothers to critical doses aroused fears of with regard to chemical residues, ecol­ infant mortality and severe deformations. ogical threats, and substitute methods." There has been no publication to date of the American findings on the outcome of The comment on the Agricultural Chemicals spraying in the Vietnam war. Distribution Control Act reads- "The 'Control Act' does not exercise Considerable interest in the effects of control over spraying in a preventive 2,4,5-T and 2,4-D has been aroused in capacity. Actual spraying is done by priv­ America since that time. A recent article ate arrangement, with or without com­ in the "New York Times" of 13 April 1978 mercial help, and without warning to any reads- controlling body. Conditions that might "Washington, April 12 (UPI)-The otherwise be attached, or personal inspect­ Environmental Protection Agency said ions in some cases, are thereby fore­ today that widely used weed and brush stalled." killer, 2,4,5-T might be a hazard to The comment on the Health Act (Food and human health. Drug) Regulations reads- "Findings of birth defects and cancer­ "In one or two areas (stock foods, ous tumors among laboratory animals fruit and vegetables) there exist a few exposed to 2,4,5-T indicate that it may restraints on contamination, and similarly, cause the same problems among people ... as regards controls on chemical use, there "The agency said it would publish a are a couple of provisions of doubtful notice declaring the herbicide a potential value (hazardous areas). Looked at as health hazard and giving users and pro­ a whole, the remarkable absence of legal ducers of the chemical a chance to rebut controls on use of field chemicals, residues those findings. Eventually, the agency will in food, and pollution in general needs make a final ruling on the safety of the no comment-it speaks for itself, the few compound and whether it should be provisions that do exist merely highlight­ removed from the market." ing the omissions." The important point reads- I believe that in this State we need an "The area of concern, the agency said, overall review of these chemical Acts. It is involved a chemical contaminant that quite frightening to think of the effect that sometimes showed up in 2,4,5-T and is these chemicals might have on us as human known as 'dioxin' or 'TCDD'." beings. I have not been able to find any proof of this, so what I suggest is that at I read our Primary Industries Department this stage chemicals such as 2,4,5-T and reports to see if I could find anything on the 2,4-D should be withdrawn from the market effect of these chemicals on human beings. I pending the results of an inquiry by this wanted to find out what effect these agricul­ Government or by the Government of the tural chemicals had on us. I could find United States. absolutely nothing. However, I was amazed to discover what we are eating. Our grain is It is quite frightening to think that I sprayed for storage pests, such as the rice used 2,4,5-T in my own backyard to kill the weevil, the rust red flour beetle and the grain bindi-eyes at a time when my wife was borer. Citrus fruits are treated for viruses. pregnant and she could easily have been Deciduous fruits are treated for viruses, affected by this chemical. I believe it does apple scale and brown rot. Mangoes are have an effect upon people and that there sprayed for diseases. Custard apples and is now enough evidence to suggest that pineapples are treated for mealy bug. Straw­ 2,4,5-T should be withdrawn from the berries are treated for nematodes. Most market. Queensland fruits are treated for fruit fly. Most vegetables are also treated for some type of disease. CHILD WELFARE SERVICES. I have here a report on pollution control Mr. FOURAS (South Brisbane) (12.11 legislation in Queensland. To begin with, p.m.): I rise to speak in the debate on I refer to the Agricultural Standards Act. Matters of Public Interest to point out the The comment in the report, which I think lack of planning and glaring deficiencies in is very pertinent, reads- the facilities offered in Queensland for the care, control and rehabilitation of children. "The Queensland Act was claimed to In doing so, I intend to point out some of the provide the prototype for the Acts in alternative community-based approaches some other States, and the pride of the being carried out in other States. Standards Branch in this is coupled with a reluctance to add further powers and There is no doubt that some severely 'bureaucratic' controls to it. Twenty years socially damaged children do need the care have passed since its inception, and the of institutions such as the Wilson Youth Matters of Public Interest [26 APRIL 1978] Matters of Public Interest 581

Hospital and the Westbrook Training Centre. their standard of dress and the way they However, the institutions must be geared to speak)-they are considered in moral danger getting these children back into the com­ more readily than their middle-class counter­ munity and the home as quickly as possible. parts. We should end the pretence that the A short or temporary loss of freedom must system is for the benefit of such a child. be a last resort. It should be the ultimate What we are doing is imposing community result only after all the other deflection moral standards-and double standards at strategies such as probation and attendance that. Court proceedings would be much at community-based programmes have fairer if those children were compulsorily failed. given legal representation. They could be represented by their own legal representative My major concern is the appalling lack or by somebody from Legal Aid. of community-based programmes in Queens­ land and, secondly, the treatment that Because of social maladjustment, many children receive at Wilson Youth Hospital, children are not able to get the best out which treats children as if they are either of their time at school. This may be evident mad or bad. It both brutalises and stig­ in destructive behaviour at school or at matises the children, and is counter-pro­ home truancy and anti-social behaviour. The ductive to helping them fit into the com­ instit~tionalisation of such children in the munity and family life. <>aol-like atmosphere that exists at the Wilson Youth Hospital does not occur in any other Institutionalisation should be short term. State. For example, the South Australian It should be for less than three months­ preferably two to three months. Also, the Government runs centres such as the Nor­ time should be specific. Children should wood Project Centre, which is non-residential know for how long they are to be insti­ and is staffed by both social workers and tutionalised .. It is necessary, then, that we remedial teachers. I recently visited this not treat children in institutions as we treat centre and was most impressed. Young children in cadet schools and similar people there are helped to learn m?re about obedience-type schools. This occurs too much their behaviour and ways of handlmg them­ in Queensland institutions and it denies the selves in school, in the community and at children a relationship with the people help­ home. The programmes at the centre ing them. In Queensland, the current method encourage social and emotional growth and of entry into the juvenile justice system is give remedial educational assistance so that basically by one of two ways. The youth may students are able to return to a normal school commit an offence--that is, break the law as setting with better social and learning skills. it exists for all people (adults as well as In Tasmania, welfare officers work with children)-and then be subjected to a truant children. They speak to them and variety of responses from a police warning try to help them adjust to school. Of cour~e, to institutionalisation under the care and if they cannot they then send them to specral control of the Director of Children's schools; but they do not institutionalise them. Services. In fact, the whole policy of looking af.ter The second method is the one that I am children in Tasmania is based upon locatmg a little concerned about. It entails the them in open places. Currently in Tasmania method of application to the Children's only six children are in secure institutions, Court for a care-and-control order. A where they do not have freedom of entry successful order transfers guardianship from and exit. At times, a few may abscond, but the child's parents to the Director of the the effect of incarceration on the future of Department of Children's Services and is those children is far greater than any effect effective until the child attains the age of 18 they may have if they are let loose in society. years or is otherwise discharged by the Minister. Another type of community-bas~d proj~ct which impressed me was one at ?Illes P_la.ms There are three grounds for an application in Adelaide. It is an open umt provrdmg for care and control. The first ground is accommodation for boys up to 15 years of that the child is likely to lapse into a life of age. It is under the direct control of a vice or crime; the second ground is that the senior residential care worker and is staffed child is exposed to moral danger; and the by five other residential care workers and a third ground is that the child is or appears cook. This allows individual counselling. to be uncontrollable. Each residential care worker counsels two children. The children are helped to adapt. I am appalled that, because of a lack of They receive appropriate support and are alternatives, upon application many children free to go to jobs or schools. They are are institutionalised into the Wilson Youth helped to cope, and without losing their free­ Hospital. Children subjected to application appear to me to be subjected to the criminal dom. law without the onus of proof and, there­ While in South Australia, I was also fore, are getting the worst of two worlds. able to see the operation of juvenile aid In the case of children being exposed to panels, which have provided a flexible alter­ moral danger, which because of the double native to juvenile court proceedings and are standards in our community relates almost capable of providing support and assistance exclusively to girls (particularly poor girls, to the child within his family and the com­ because of their socio-economic position, munity. The panels afford an opportunity 582 Matters of Public Interest [26 APRIL 1978] Matters of Public Interest for children to avoid the stigma of being AsSISTANCE FOR DECENTRAUSATION OF labelled with a court appearance. During INDUSTRY; WATER SUPPLY, TOWNSVILLE the first two years of panel operation in AREA South Australia, some 80 per cent of children who went through the panels did not re­ Mr. M. D. HOOPER (Townsville West) offend. This may be because the child's (12.21 p.m.): I urge the Government to give behaviour is discussed and necessary adjust­ more attention to a policy of decentralisation, ments can be made, particularly in the matter as distinct from an open-ended policy of of helping the children and their parents to assistance to industrial development any­ find out what their problems are. Juvenile aid where in Queensland. panels do have the power, in the event of non-co-operation, to send a child to court. Southern States are attempting to restrain I can see one danger in panels, and that the drif'c of country dwellers to Sydney and is plea bargaining. It is possible that some Melbou e by offering incentives for the children will admit offences they have not establisl· 1ent of industry in provincial cities committed. But this is still something which and tov. s. Although Queensland does pur­ ought to be tried in Queensland. sue an , .;tive policy of giving incentives for the establishment of manufacturing indus~ In Victoria, the State Government is also tries, incentives for the establishment of involved in various community-based pro­ industries in Brisbane are the same as grammes. The Western Youth Welfare Ser­ those offered for new industries in any pro­ vice at Ascot Vale is most impressive, and vincial city or town in Queensland. As a has developed workable deflection models matter of fact, figures prove that the farther for youths. Western tries to cover the middle from Brisbane one intends to establish an ground where probation has been tried once industry, the less attractive it tends to and has failed, or where youths need support become. to leave an institution. Western has on its In Victoria rebates of pay-roll tax and premises deflection hostels and ordinary land tax are given to manufacturing industry hostels. The emphasis is to teach social if it locates 80 km or more from Melbourne. survival skills in a two to three month period Rail freight discount of 25 per cent is in order to re-establish a youth at home, or given on raw materials from Melbourne to perhaps boarding independently, within that a decentralised town; similarly, a discount period. Children continue to receive super­ of 25 per cent is given on products from vision and support as required when they do such a town to Melbourne. That helps leave Western. Co-educational classes are industry in a decentralised area to compete also conducted at Western for higher school against industry in Melbourne. adolescents, and the aim is to re-establish school . attendance habits while making up More people are coming to live in Queens­ educatiOnal deficiencies. Children also attend land, and the Government should be pur­ evening so~ial skill programmes. They attend suing policies to promote industry in North for two mghts a week for eight weeks and Queensland. In this respect, infrastructure a~e gi~en the evening meal. Social group is of the utmost importance, and it is there discussions cover such topics as sex education already. Townsville is the best general­ and the use of alcohol, money budgets cargo seaport in North Queensland; it has public transport and telephone;. Thes~ an airport that can handle international children need social skills in order to survive. aircraft; it is the centre of rail transport in North Queensland; and it has educational The New South Wales State Government facilities up to university level. Unfortun­ is also having significant success with attend­ ately, the city does have high rates because ance centres and community youth centres. of heavy investment in local authority pro­ Attendance at such centres is often stipulated jects in recent years to meet an exploding by magistrates as a condition to probation. population. The programmes are seen as positive and Townsville's chief problem is the lack of supportive rather than punitive, with the a reliable water supply for people, commerce aim of introducing each young person and industry. More than 12 years ago the attending to a wider range of recreational and Townsville City Council requested the Irri­ social activities-teaching them how to live gation and Water Supply Commission to and how to use their leisure time. investigate the best source and cost of an additional water supply for the Townsville The apparent lack of planning and the area. In 1968 the Irrigation and Water total lack of alternative community-based Supply Commission recommended that a dam programmes for children in Queensland with a retaining wall nearly 5 miles long should be condemned. In Queensland should be constructed above the junction resources are locked into the remedial of 5 Head Creek and Ross River, which approach, and this results in the gaoling would serve the dual purpose of providing of children, who should not be there, in a flood-mitigation project for Townsville's institutions such as the Wilson Youth Hos­ low-lying suburbs and additional water stor­ age. pital. Locking up children is not the answer. It was recommended that the dam be built in two stages. The first stage would (Time expired.) overcome the immediate demand for water; Matters of Public Interest [26 APRIL 1978] Matters of Public Interest 583

the second stage was to be built later to investigated the soil and the relocation of cater for a larger population and additional rail and road indicate that it will now cost commerce and industry. In 1968 the Irriga­ in excess of $13,000,000 to finish the pro­ tion and Water Supply Commission estim­ ject. Allowing that the new design standards ated that stage I would cost $7,510,000, and of the Railway Department and the Main that stage 11, which involved the raising of Roads Department are superior to the the embankment wall by 14 ft. and relocat­ existing facilities-they should be replaced, ing the western railway line and main road anyhow, at Government cost-those depart­ onto higher ground for approximately 15 ments have decided to contribute $5,000,000 miles, would cost only an additional towards the overall cost of the $13,000,000 $3,640,000. In other words, the total cost replacement, leaving the Townsville rate­ of stages I and II was estimated in 1968 payer to find something like $10,000,000 to be $11,150,000. Subsequent events have to meet the overall costs, including consul­ oroved how completely wrong that figure tants' fees. was, as the final cost will be of the order In deputations I have had to the Premier of $30,000,000, provided the scheme is pro­ and to the Minister for Lands, Forestry ceeded with immediately. and Water Resources with aldermen of the For the last 20 years Townsville has Townsville City Council, they have both been a growth centre in its own right, with­ assured me that the State would give high out the massive injection of Government priority to the council's requirement for funds seen in Albury-Wodonga and Bathurst­ funding from the national water resources Orange. Historically, the demand for water programme of the Federal Government. I has always exceeded supply, and in some believe that the State Government must respects this has inhibited the growth of accept a great responsibility for funding industry to create more employment oppor­ the completion of the Ross River Dam. tunities. What I am asking for is a bigger slice of Queensland's prosperity cake for the Towns­ Because of a large population of defence ville region. personnel and their families, the Federal Government has accepted some respon­ In recent years we have seen the State sibility to assist with funding of an adequate Government spend $40,000,000 on the con­ water supply. However, with the wild struction of freeways in Brisbane, with no escalation of costs in recent years, far contribution by Brisbane ratepayers, but greater Federal and State Government grants ratepayers in provincial areas pay their share are essential to complete the dam without of main roads development. The State financiai hardship to Townsviiie families and Government has approved the expenditure ratepayers. of $60,000,000 on a cultural centre in Bris­ bane. Again for this scheme there is no When stage I was completed late in 1973, contribution by Brisbane ratepayers, but two­ it had already cost $11,600,000 (more than thirds of the cost of the $4,500,000 civic the original estimate for stages I and Il), theatre built in Townsville will be met by and the basis of funding was as follows:- ratepayers of that city. The State Govern­ Townsville City Council $6,200,000 ment is spending about $66,000,000 at the State Government $3,900,000 present time on electrifying the Brisbane Federal Government . . $1,500,000 suburban railway system. Only Brisbane ratepayers will benefit from that, but they Concerned at rapidly rising costs, and the will not pay one red cent towards the cost fact that the population was growing faster of that project. than earlier predictions, the city council of the day decided to proceed immediately Townsville ratepayers are already paying with stage 11 of the dam. The I.W.S.C. nearly the highest rates in the State, at that time gave an updated estimate of and they should not be asked to pay the total stage 11 costs at $5,120,000. Quite any increased rates at the present time for obviously that also was only a guess, unsup­ the relocation of the western railway and ported by any detailed design or engineer­ main road. Whatever grant the city does ing investigation, and without any know­ receive from the Federal Government for ledge of construction standards that would this purpose, the State Government should have to be met to comply with the require­ accept its responsibility and contribute the ments of the Railway Department and the balance of the money required to relocate Main Roads Department. Unfortunately those two facilities. The Townsville-Mt. that figure was used as a yardstick by the Isa railway line is the most profitable line Federal Government in 1974 when it passed in Queensland. Some of the profits from a Bill to provide a non-repayable grant of that enterprise should be ploughed back $2,560,000 towards the cost of stage II. That into the Townsville region. Such action would fixed amount was obviously intended to greatly assist the local authority financially be half the cost of stage 11, but, as events in carrying out urgent road-works and sew­ have shown, it will be no more than about erage schemes. It would be a boost to decen­ 15 per cent of the stage 11 cost. tralisation in North Queensland. It would The initial part of stage 11 has been encourage industry and create more job completed. The raising of the 5-mile opportunities in the Townsville region. embankment, with land resumptions, has In speaking about the Townsville water already cost $6,700,000. Reliable estimates scheme, I point out that this is only the given by consulting engineers who have tip of the iceberg in problems confronting 584 Matters of Public Interest (26 APRIL 1978] Matters of Public Interest the Townsville region. When stage II is helped create a state of affairs in which completed, it will be adequate to only about members of a family do not show any sign the year 1990 at the outside, when we of affection, nor do they demonstrate affec­ will have something like 150,000 people tion one to another. Children have been living in Townsville. That supply will then known to grow up without affection from be completely absorbed by Townsville's their parents and some children cannot population and industry. The Townsville remember their parents displaying any sign watershed will have no capacity for further of affection one to the other. storage, so additional water will have to That state of affairs has had its effect in be brought from a more distant source. the learning process and in the development The State and Federal Governments have of students. Some teachers have expressed undertaken joint surveys of the Burdekin to me instances of totally uninterested child­ River Basin to determine what its water­ ren who, on seeing that someone is taking storage facilities will be by the late 1980s. an interest in them, suddenly show a spark I know that the State Government is awaiting of interest with the result that their develop­ the completion in the middle of this year of ment takes off again. a report which, I hope, will recommend that Another problem confronting the family a water-storage reservoir be constructed some­ is that of working wives. We know that where in the Burdekin River Basin and par­ many wives nowadays work not for pin-money ticularly at the Burdekin River Falls. Such but for an income that will help preserve a reservoir would not only assure the Towns­ the economic stability of the family. How­ ville area generally of a water supply far ever, many husbands have found great dif­ beyond the year 2000, but also provide ficulty in adjusting to this change in our adequate water for irrigation and commercial society. and industrial development in the whole People today must indeed be the busiest region. in creation. They do not seem to have time I cannot stress too strongly the need for to attend to the development of a relation­ decentralisation in North Queensland. The ship with other members of their family. congestion that presently prevails in Brisbane Parents have no time to converse with each and the need to construct additional freeways other and have little time to converse with in the metropolitan area would disappear with their offspring or help them in their devel­ the decentralisation of population into the opment. They have no time to develop that Far North and the western areas of Queens­ relationship. Young people are left to their land. own devices and their peer groups to help them develop their identity and values. (Time expired.) Because they do not relate in depth to other members of the family they have difficulty in relating to other people. THE NucLEAR F.;,.rvnL Y r:-.~ OUR SociETY Many young people have developed, and Mr. SCASSOLA (Mt. Gravatt) (12.31 others are develooin2:. the notion that it is p.m.): I desire to speak today about the desirable that they f~el the way they want pressures exerted on the family in our com­ to and do the things they want to do with­ munity. It is certainly under fire. Great out regard for anyone else. There is a grow­ stresses are being placed upon the family, ing disregard for others. The notion involves thereby loosening the bonds that hold it placing oneself above responsibility. When together. For example, the impact of the notion of independence is taken to that religion on the lives of many people has extreme, inevitably there will be alienation declined. A recent poll revealed that only from the family. approximately 20 per cent of the population The fact of the matter is that in many were regular church-goers. families there are precious few points of con­ Another problem arises from the increased tact. Many families do not dine together; indi­ mobility of people. In their search for homes vidual members eat on their own and have young persons have literally become far no time to eat with other members of the removed from their families. Young married family. Many families do not play together, couples are compelled to obtain jobs that read together or interact on the same intel­ necessitate the breaking of their family ties. lectual level, while others do not even watch The ready provision of . credit to young television together. Some do not have time people and the availability of motor vehicles to talk to one another. It is hard for two have enabled them to do what they describe people to communicate if they are in differ­ as "their own thing" away from the family. ent places at the one time. The media have had and continue to have If any further evidence is required to a profound impact on the family. News­ show that the family is in a state of stress, papers, periodicals and books have had a tre­ a state of siege, one has only to look at mendous influence and in many instances the statistics on marriage and divorce. In have assaulted traditional values and beliefs. 1975 in Queensland, 2,689 divorces took Television has been the means by which plac~. In 1976 there were 9,631 divorces. social intercourse between members of the In 1977 45,000 divorces took place through­ family has decreased. Furthermore it ha~ out Australia. The marriage rate dropped assisted in leading to what has been termed from 8.5 per thousand head of population intimacy deprivation. In other words, it has in 1968 to 7.9 per thousand in 1976. Matters of Public Interest [26 APRIL 1978} Matters of Public Interest 585

What are the solutions? They do not rest this State. The Federal allegations pale into in the so-called alternatives, which are insignificance beside the Queensland gerry­ merely a form of escapism and simply avoid mander. the problem. What is necessary is the creation of a climate in which the family There were some glaring examples well is able to meet the challenges it faces. It prior to the election campaign. For example, is a twofold matter. First there is the matter the present member for Caboolture, who was of education and second there is the matter the previous member for Murrumba, shifted of support for the family. Often when one to Caboolture six weeks before the redistri­ is asked to give advice and assistance to bution decision was made public. As the people who say that they have a deep rift National Party member for Murrumba, he in their relationship, it is too late. Offering had a majority of 7,460. Prior to the advice and assistance then is giving too election, Government Ministers were openly little too late. discussing redistribution changes throughout It has often surprised me to note that the Queensland. We were well and truly aware community, through the Government, spends of what was happening. hundreds of millions of dollars annually in teaching people to acquire occupational and It was common knowledge that the com­ social skills, yet it spends no money, and missioners appointed by the Premier were certainly not enough time and effort, in at his beck and call. Many of the decisions helping people to acquire skills to relate were discussed openly with Cabinet and the to one another so that they may be able Premier well and truly before the decisions to enjoy a happy, enduring family relation­ were published. We even had the fiasco ship. that resulted in a pathetic attempt to save Sir Bruce Small in Surfers Paradise and the The family still is, and will continue to be, abolition of the proposed Broadbeach elector­ the fundamental group unit of society. Mar­ ate. There is no risk that the redistribution riage is, and will continue to be, the basis of was organised by the Cabinet. the family. Good marital relations mean good family relations. In past generations people At the moment, I think that the Liberal grew up as members of larger families. attitude is very relevant. One prominent In the process of growing up they Liberal has said in this House, "At least acquired those skills that enabled them Joh is honest." He is honest in not claiming to relate to others; but nowadays, that electoral redistribution in Queensland people do not have those opportun­ is honest. The statement of the Minister ities and benefits to acquire those skills. It for Local Government and Main Roads is is appropriate, in my view, that the com­ well known throughout Queensland. He said, munity should, through the education system, "Give me a go, and I'll fix it even better teach mature children the skills that will than Joh has." enable them to enjoy a happy family life, a life which will recognise the need for One of the most tragic occurrences is responsibilities and duties as well as priv­ reported in "The Australian Financial ileges. Review" today. All Queenslanders must There is a need to teach young people be ashamed of what happened in the redistri­ values. There is a need to teach them bution. This newspaper is one of the most that every action on their part has an respected financial newspapers in the Com­ effect not only on them but also on other monwealth. It is read by investors, industrial­ people around them. There is a need to ists and other people likely to make a teach them that strong bonds require nurt­ difference to Queensland. The editorial uring and that strong bonds require cultiva­ about the Federal Government inquiry tion if they are to endure. There is a reads- need for people to remember to remember. " By the standards of Queensland politics There is a need for people to understand this is a relatively tame affair. that happy and enduring relationships need time and compromise. "In that State the ruling clique plays its politics with such cynicism and success (Time expired.) that the charges against Mr Robinson, even if they were correct, look like the merest of peccadilloes. ELECTORAL REDISTRIDUTION "Fortunately Prime Minister Fraser Mr. D'ARCY: (Woodridge) (12.41 p.m.): has not, like the rest of the political I rise to speak on a matter of tremendous community, become desensitised about public interest. I call for a royal commission what is happening in Queensland. into the last electoral redistribution in "He does not join the fools' chorus Queensland and into the electoral redistribu­ which elevates each and every outra­ tion system in Queensland in general. geous antic by Premier Bjelke-Petersen In the light of the recent inquiry instituted to instant folklore. by the Federal Government into Federal "What is happening in Queensland at redistribution, Queenslanders again received the moment is the most corrosive tremendously bad publicity throughout Aus­ alchemy that has ever been applied to tralia because of the gerrymander system in the Australian political system. 586 Matters of Public Interest [26 APRIL 1978] Matters of Public Interest

"We have a State Premier, supported Later he says- in power by an electoral gerrymander, a "The grass roots of the Liberal Party pusillanimous coalition partner and an have been making crystal-clear their lack intimidated governing party riding rough­ of confidence in the present government shod over all the conventions of mature, leadership and their distaste for the abuse clean, open and rational government." of executive power and authority. I repeat that it is an editorial from one of "The parliamentary wing of the party the most responsible newspapers in the nation. will ignore these views at its peril. Mr. Knox will have to do much more than just Furthermore, many other editorials have call the Premier 'intemperate' if he is to been written in recent times suggesting that relieve the frustrations of the supporters this type of action by a radical and Right­ of his party. wing Government-and this Government is "However, it may even now not be too a radical and Right-wing Government­ late to save Queensland from the disaster could lead to the climate that exists in which may befall it if Mr. Bjelke-Petersen Europe at the present time, where there is is allowed to proceed to his logical con­ bloodshed and violence in the political sphere. clusion." This is not happening in this State at the present time, but the Premier is leading us The logical conclusion, I might point out, to this state of affairs. We cannot say that is that with this Right-wing Government in Queensland we have a democratic Gov­ in Queensland we will face the sort of terror ernment. The Queensland system is not that exists under the parliamentary system government by majority, but government by of the European nations. Professor Tarlo gerrymander. concludes- " But only the Liberal M.L.A.'s have it We see time and time again the antics of in their power to save the situation. Will the Liberal Party and the divisions within they have the determination and courage it at the present time. Obviously, "The to act-for the benefit of Queensland and Courier-Mail", the leading paper in Queens­ of Australia?" land, which in the past has been so biased against the Australian Labor Party, has at On many occasions in the past, the Leader last taken the Liberal Party to task when of the Opposition (Mr. Burns), has called on we read editorials such as this one- members of the Liberal Party to do some­ thing to remedy the situation that has arisen. "Disgruntled Liberals We have appealed to them, and even their "The State Parliamentary Liberal Party own party has appealed to them, to sit on should face up to the fact that Queens­ the cross-benches of this Parliament. One land's coalition Government is growing of the steps that the Liberal Party must increasingly out-of-touch with the party's take-and I have already mentioned it in rank-and-file membership." passing-is to start disendorsing some of the Liberal members who want to write "Liberal" Then we see headlines such as "Liberal after their name and stand in Liberal seats attacks Joh on marches ban", "Split on whereas in actual fact they are members of marches", "Liberal Rebel 'in return'", the National Party. "The Courier-Mail" of "Young Libs to move on 'renegades' ", 11 September 1977 had this to say of them- "Young Liberals drive the wedge in deeper", "Many Parliamentarians are rarely seen "Young Liberal move to expel poll 'rebels'", at Liberal functions and some are virtually "Young Libs hear call for a republic", 'faceless men' to the rank and file, accord­ "Bjelke claims Young Libs embarrassing", ing to party sources.'' "'We need more say', Liberal Party claims", Another headline in "The Courier-Mail" and "3 area conferences widen rift in Liberal states, "Libs censure for Porter". Recently Party ranks", I could go on. I think the the New South Wales Attorney-General told time has come when the Liberal Party me that our Minister for Justice and machine should be calling for the disendorse­ Attorney-General had told him that the ment of its members who obviously give Treasurer would "go with Joh" before he their allegiance not to the Liberal Party would support the Liberal Party. Another but directly to the National Party. headline reads, "Porter lashes Young Libs on criticism of Bjelke-Petersen". We know I should now like to refer to a letter that the Treasurer's position as Leader of published in "The Courier-Mail" that was the Liberal Party in this State is in jeopardy. written by Professor Tarlo, a professor at the We have seen back-bench Liberal members approaching person after person around this University of Queensland and, as stated on Parliament, canvassing for a new leader. television, a former Liberal Party member. Even the Press know this. The article is under the headline "Liberals must act on Premier" and he states- In this speech today I am calling for a royal commission into the recent State " ... But the Premier has only contempt electoral redistribution, which, as I say, for the public and for Parliament-both makes the recent furore over the latest are supposed to put their trust in his Federal redistribution pale into insignif­ superior God-inspired judgment." icance. No matter what party has been in Matters of Public Interest [26 APRIL 1978] Matters of Public Interest 587 power, the Federal Government has been a public meeting last year that he wouldn't consistently honest in relation to electoral marry consenting homosexuals unless it was redistribution, and, indeed, in all matters approved by what he conveniently described pertaining to the public purse, whereas this as the "Body of Christ". Government has not. This Government has openly flaunted its blatant misuse of the Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr. Miller): electoral system, as was apparent by the Order! The honourable member appears to recent redistribution. The Press and the be reading his speech. Liberal Party are aware of the situation. Mr. I. J. GIBBS: I am reading and quo­ We are asking the members of the Liberal ting from notes. There are names which Party to stand up and be counted, because have to be quoted correctly and precisely, they are the only people who can do some­ because otherwise I would be doing an thing about what is happening in this State, injustice to some people in Queensland. and if they do so the Opposition will stand solidly behind them. We call for the Liberal Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! The Party members to sit on the cross-benches, honourable member may carry on. I will be just as their own party supporters have done. watching what he does. I also call on them to support an equitable redistribution in this State and the setting Mr. I. J. GIBBS: "Body of Christ"! That up of a royal commission into the electoral in clear language simply means majority system of Queensland. vote-the preference of the mob--and it was the mob which sent Christ to his death! Nothing about obeying Scripture, admitting CoNCERNED CHRISTIANs' CoNNECTION WITH submission to higher values, or in obeying ACTION FOR WORLD DEVELOPMENT God's law! Just listen to the mob, and damnation to Scripture-the laws of God! Mr. I. J. GIBBS (Albert) (12.51 p.m.): I This is typical of the "concern" these people wish to raise a matter of considerable impor­ are peddling today. tance to Christians everywhere, namely the strange collection of people behind the cur­ Now, Mr. Preston is the Action for World rent demonstrations by well known radical Development education officer in Brisbane, persons calling themselves Concerned Chris­ and also is the centre about which these tians. This very small minority has been people swing. His predecessor, Mr. Ray receiving substantial news publicity, and after Bush, was also an A.W.D. officer, and is a reading a small item in "The Courier-Mail" central figure in Concerned Christians. Mr. of Tuesday, 18 April, under the misleading Bush's political affiliations are well-known. title, "Church is keeping up the Attack", I He has handed out how-to-vote cards for feel it is about time the people of Queens­ Labor, and last year failed to win pre­ land were told what this group is up to, who selection in a Labor seat. Evidently the is behind it, and its almost miraculous ability Trades Hall think he's too extreme for to win Press coverage when its opponents are them, or maybe he's not in their pocket! given little or none. I say this because "The ,Nevertheless, these two organisers for Courier-Mail" attempts to perpetuate myth Action for World Development are also the and fable in accepting the lie that these main functionaries in the Concerned Christ­ modern-day Pharisees, the Concerned Chris­ ians, and they have gathered about them a tian group, are somehow separate from the collection of Labor-oriented people to do well-known leftist body, Action for World the job of what Senator Gietzelt now des­ Development. The truth is that Action for cribes as the "Democratic Socialists". World Development is the mother of the According to the Senator, social democracy Concerned Christian faction, and while its is hostile to our Westminster system of members may try and deny this truth, the democratic government and seeks to bring facts prove otherwise. about the Marxist state through democratic Action for World Development was fully means instead of violent means. In the end, exposed in this Chamber last year and there of course, we lose our freedom. is no need to detail its sinister associations Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! I draw with extremists and Left-wing agitation. the honourable member's attention once However, let me say this: down south Action again to Mr. Speaker's ruling that a member for World Development has actually hosted may not read his speech. The honourable a meeting of Iron Curtain clergy, who are member appears to be reading word for notorious for being under Communist Party word, and I ask him not to read his speech. control. Their current goal is to infiltrate the He has been here for a number of years, Christian churches and turn them away and I think that he is quite capable of from the Christian gospel, and, by generating making a speech without having to read it. an anti anti-Communist feeling, to make socia­ lism more acceptable to Australian church people. People have told me that their Mr. I. J. GIBBS: Thank you very much, gospel is more attuned to that of Marx than Mr. Deputy Speaker. it could ever be to that of Christ, and, in That is the real gospel of Action for evidence, I cite the very words of Action World Development. They sing hymns and for World Development and Concerned purport to support Christian people. In fact, Christian leader, Mr. Noel Preston, who told they are not supporting Christian people; 588 Matters of Public Interest [26 APRIL 1978] Qld. Inter. Tourist Centre, &c., Bill

they are riding on the back of the church prices. That followed a call by the con­ and purporting to be its leaders. As far as fectionery manufacturers of Australia who I am concerned, that is not on. claimed that the assessing of the suga; price It is not surprising that the Leftist leader­ had gone wrong since the inquiry in 1962. ship of the Queensland Teachers' Union At the same time, the Deputy Prime Min­ appointed itself the trigger for socialists in ister and Leader of the National Party (Mr. assisting to put forward MACOS-Man: A Anthony), who was also Minister for Trade, Course of Study-which takes Christianity made a similar statement as a result of out of the teaching in our schools. pressure brought to bear on him by major manufacturers in the southern part of Aus­ Mr. K. J. Hooper: Why don't you use tralia. bigger type? As I said earlier, the Queensland Govern­ Mr. I. J. GIBBS: Every A.L.P. member ment knew almost 12 months ago that who has spoken this morning has read his Messrs. Sinclair and Anthony were being speech, and that includes the honourable subjected to, and yielding to, pressure from member who preceded me in the debate. major manufacturing interests in southern States relative to the domestic price of Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! sugar. In spite of that, when the case was put forward by the Queensland Govern­ Mr. I. J. Gnms: That just goes to show ment on this occasion, it was almost a dupli­ how they want to interfere with-- cation of the type of submission that it had made last year. Like Pontius Pilate, the Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! I ask Queensland Government virtually washed its the honourable member to resume his seat hands of it and forwarded it straight on to when I am on my feet. He has made a Canberra for the Federal Government's slight on the Chair. I ask him to apologise decision. Of course, Canberra came back, to the Chair and carry on with his speech. probably rightly so, and said that it wanted more information from the sugar industry. Mr. I. J. GIBBS: I apologise for any slight It wanted the sugar industry to let it know on the Chair, but I noticed the honourable the basis of its application. The Queensland member for South Brisbane reading his industry had to rally around and obtain speech. some substantial figures from various cane growers on producer costs and increases over Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! There the period of time. will be no debate on the matter. The hon­ ourable member will resume his seat. Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr. Miller): Order! Under the provisions of the Sessional Mr. CASEY: Mr. Deputy Speaker-­ Order agreed to by the House, the time allotted for the debate on Matters of Public Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER: The honour­ Interest has now expired. able member for Mackay. The honourable member for Albert will resume his seat. I [Sitting suspended from 1 to 2.15 p.m.] have called the honourable member for Mackay. QUEENSLAND INTERNATIONAL TOURIST CENTRE AGREEMENT BILL AUSTRALIAN DOMESTIC SUGAR PRICE INITIATION Mr. CASEY (Mackay) (12.58 p.m.): The matter of public importance that I wish to Hon. J. BJELKE-PETERSEN (Barambah raise is the great concern of the sugar -Premier), by leave, without notice: I industry about the increase in the price of move- sugar for home consumption. "That the House will, at its present This question has caused a great deal of sitting, resolve itself into a Committee of controversy in recent weeks, and I draw the the Whole to consider introducing a Bill attention of the House to the fact that the with respect to an agreement between the Queensland Government is as much at fault State of Queensland and Iwasaki Sangyo as the Federal Government for what has Co. (Aust.) Pty. Ltd. and for purposes happened. The State Government knew incidental thereto and consequent about 12 to 15 months ago, when the last thereon." approach for an increase in the home con­ Motion agreed to. sumption price of sugar was made, that the Federal Government was not keen to grant lNITIATION IN COMI\fliTEE an increase, as the increase finally granted was much smaller than that originally asked (The Chairman of Committees, Mr. W. D. for. Hewitt, Greenslopes, in the chair) Let us look, Mr. Deputy Speaker, at some Hon J. BTELKE-PETERSEN (Barambah comments made back in June 1977 by the -Premier) (2.16 p.m.): I move- Commonwealth Minister for Primary Indus­ "That a Bill be introduced with respect try (Mr. Sinclair). He agreed to consider to an agreement between the State of a public inquiry into the sugar industry and Queensland and Iwasaki Sangyo Co. Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 589

(Aust.) Pty. Ltd. and for purposes I accuse the A.L.P., and the Opposition incidental thereto and consequent Leader in particular, of stooping to racism thereon." of the crudest kind, as was done the other The purpose of the proposed Bill is to faci­ day, in their efforts to blacken both the litate the development of a large, world­ Yeppoon tourist resort and Mr. Iwasaki. I class tourist resort in the Farnborough area, think the only ones who are blackened are north of Y eppoon, to be known as the members opposite, particularly the Leader Queensland International Tourist Centre. of the Opposition. He certainly has blackened I want to make it clear that I support himself-provided, of course, it is possible the project very strongly and say that for him to be any blacker than he is at Queensland is fortunate to have this present in the eyes of the people. opportunity. The following telegram from the Yeppoon Opposition members laugh. That is the Chamber of Commerce puts the matter in a sort of attitude one would expect from those nutshell- on that side of the House-the wreckers. "Latest indication of local opinion shows It would be more to the point if they took opposition to Iwasaki project has dwindled up business as wreckers. They laugh at to less than 100 out of 8,000 coastal the prospect of new employment opport­ population." unities, a new outlet for regional products That telegram refers to the attitude of the and services and a new avenue of promotion local people, including members of the for the entire Yeppoon/Rockhampton area. A.L.P. Obviously they are people belonging They laugh at all of that. I am sure that to the reform group, not the group that the one honourable member over there does not Leader of the Opposition belongs to. laugh at it; he is very happy about it, but he is mixed up with everyone else on I charge the Leader of the Opposition that side. and the A.L.P. outright that, if this project were being undertaken by a developer from The first stage alone will cost $20,000,000. Red China, Germany-which fought us in The proposed project has been welcomed in World War II-or Russia, they would not the YeppoonjRockhampton area by the have uttered one word about it and would great majority of people in that region. have been fiat out in trying to promote it. Why don't they say something about the Honourable Members interjected. involvement of the Moscow Narodny Bank in the Samford Valley project? Not a word The CHAIRMAN: Order! This is a very from them! important Bill that is coming before the If the Leader of the Opposition had Committee. I intend to allow it to be repeated outside the House some of the debated as fully as possible, but in a proper, racist propaganda uttered by him in the orderly manner. I draw to the attention House, he would have forced Mr. Grassby of all honourable members the provisions of to take action against him, even if he had Standing Order 123A. I will not hesitate not wanted to. Mr. Grassby would have had to invoke them. no option but to take action against him.

Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: The people of Mr. Burns: Why doesn't he take action? the Yeppoon/Rockhampton area realise what it will mean in ensuring continued Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: Why doesn't growth, development and employment. he? Say outside the things you have been saying in the Chamber. The main opposition can be summed up very simply: it comes from the A.L.P. and The Leader of the Opposition, in telling its front groups-as always, the greatest his stories, has been talking utter nonsense. wreckers. There is something in the nature He makes judgments without knowing the of A.L.P. members that they seek to destroy facts. Anyone who does that condemns him­ or pull down something, whether it is per­ self, as the honourable member has been sonal character or anything else. They are doing over the past couple of weeks. He indeed the wreckers. The Leader and the made judgments without knowing both sides Deputy Leader of the Opposition, and their of the story. colleagues, must now feel utter and com­ All Mr. Iwasaki's land purchases have plete fools because of the way they have been made in the normal way; there is talked and misrepresented the position for nothing unusual about them. I reckon that a long time. They have fooled many people, anyone who sees the land up at Yeppoon but at this point of time the people of will compliment Mr. Iwasaki on his initiative. Queensland have at last realised that most things that members of the Opposition say Mr. Hinze: They don't even know where it are so wide of the mark that they no is. longer take much notice of them. The A.L.P. for ever stands condemned for the nature of its attacks on this project. They Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: No, they don't must surely realise the enormity of their even know where it is. attitude as the destroyers and wreckers of All details of the franchise agreement have something that must be of great benefit to been discussed by the joint Government many people. parties and approved. 590 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill

Mr. Iwasaki is going to give the Queens­ realise what it will mean more fully than land and Australian tourist industries the honourable members opposite, who alway~ biggest shot in the arm they have had in seem to think in a negative way and try to their history. His project at Yeppoon will destroy and pull down. It will be an ideal combine the best of his experience in Japan, industry; it will be non-polluting, silent, Hawaii and other parts of the world. We in employment intensive and, at the same time, Queensland will get the benefit of it. His it will create new amenities and provide a planners are an internationally respected wide range of markets for services and American firm which has undertaken tourist products. It will mean a great deal to many projects around the world for Mr. Iwasaki people in many walks of life. and other companies. Before turning to the Bill in detail, let Mr. Iwasaki is a man of great vision and me expose the outright untruths and delib­ enterprise-in this instance not for himself, erate distortions by the Leader of the Oppo~­ as he is an old man, but for the generations ition in his anti-Japanese campaign. Hon­ of Australians and Japanese to come. He is ourable members will recall the sensational making every effort to create good relations revelations each week, with claims of secret and friendship between our two peoples. land deals, closed beaches, Mr. Iwasaki's paying my way in Japan, irreparable damage An Opposition Member: What were you to fish habitats, all-Japanese staff, Japanese­ doing on Anzac Day? only accommodation, the waiving of rules and all the rest. This was claimed by the Mr. B.JELKE-PETERSEN: The honour­ Leader of the Opposition and others. They able member's racist tendencies are coming have been making complete and utter fools out again. He cannot stop talking about of themselves all the way. I am sure that them. He ought to be downright ashamed of the people of Queensland realise that most himself. He is racist. No-one could beat the of what the Leader of the Opposition has crowd on the Opposition benches for racism. said about this project is completely off the They have a racist attitude. track or off the rails-just a.s he is in so We have much to receive from other many other areas. countries and other cultures. We have much A Government Member: He is a political to gain from trade with other countries. We lightweight. have a tremendous amount to gain from trade with Japan. If it was not for our trade Mr. B.JELKE-PETERSEN: He is cer- with Japan, we would not be enjoying our tainly a political lightweight. As one journal­ present high standard of prosperity and ist said to me this morning, the Leader of conditions. Trade with Japan means a great the Opposition has led a lot of people up deal to us in the creation of jobs and job the garden path on this issue. Now the opportunities. I am quite sure that probably Leader of the Opposition has wound up in all Opposition members have T.V. sets, a very dry creek, without an ending. He radios and watches made in Japan. Such does not know how to get out of it. items from other countries are not up to the high standard of those made in Japan. I cite the Leader of the Opposition's Many Opposition members would also drive "closed beach" statement. There will be Japanese cars. So they are nothing but no such thing as a closed beach. Part n, hypocrites. clause 5, of the Bill specifically states that the "company acknowledges that the public Mr. Iwasaki is a world leader in the has the free and unrestricted use of the establishment of hotels and motels as well as beach". Apparently the Leader of the in the promotion of the tourist industry. He Opposition cannot read; this morning he was is a great conservationist. back on the air saying that that means only Again, by laughing without knowing the below the high-water mark. For his informa­ other side of the story, honourable members tion-that is exactly the same as on the opposite condemn themselves. They do not Gold Coast, where many land titles run understand what this means. They have no down to the high-water mark. idea of what Mr. Iwasaki has done. They Mr. Burns: Let me ask you a question: do not know, for example, that he has built Are you saying that Iwasaki will have the 37 large parks in Japan. Anyone who visits same as that? his projects in Japan and other parts of the world can see the millions of trees that Mr. B.JELKE-PETERSEN: ][ shall spell he has planted, and the parks, parklands, it out for the Leader of the Opposition so bird habitats, forests, gardens and so on that he can understand it. Mr. Iwasaki, Snr., that he has created. But honourable mem­ and Mr. Iwasaki, Jnr., give an unconditional bers opposite would not be able to compre­ guarantee that the public have access to and hend or appreciate all that in any way. along the beach at any time and at any I forecast that Queenslanders will be tide. proud of this development, which, in effect, Mr. Burns interjected. will be our project. Let there be no mistake about its being a world-beater. The people of Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: That is set out the area know what the resort will mean in the Bill. I ask the Leader of the Opposition to them now and in the future. They to bide his time. It is all set out dearly. Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 591

The Leader of the Opposition, in other Mr. B.JELKE-PETERSEN: That's all right. words the wrecker, also made a song and I let him off very lightly, as a matter of dance about why the Government had not fact. revealed details of the scheme until this week. There was a tremendous lot of The CHAIRMAN: Order! detail. He knows jolly well that we do Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: I get very stir­ not go talking about the details before they red up when honourable members opposite, are finalised. Agreement was finalised only such as the member for Cairns, ask, "What in more recent times. The full details are for?" What are 460 jobs anyway? What revealed in the Bill that will lie on the are 3,420 jobs later on? That is in effect table of the House for a fortnight. what he is saying when he says, "What My Government believes that the people does that mean? Who will get the benefit?" with whom it has dealings-whether they Of course, Queensland workers will get the be individuals or organisations-have a right benefit directly. to privacy until those dealings or negotia­ Mr. Jones: Rubbish! tions are finalised. I ask honourable members opposite how the A.L.P. would react if Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: The honour­ the Government, for instance, revealed the able member says, "Rubbish!" details of its negotiations on the Breakfast Creek marina? Would they like me to tell ,Mr. Jones: Rubbish, and I repeat it. the public all about what went on in relation Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: That shows to that? There is dead silence from the what he thinks about. Again I say it is A.L.P. members. They don't want me to either because he is a wrecker or a racist reveal those details. that he makes those statements. Oppo~itimn Members interjected. The CHAIRMAN: Order! Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: Do you want ,Mr. Campbell: That will look good in me to ten the details about it? "The Cairns Post". Mr. Jon~: Go for your life. Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: My word it Honourable Members interjected. will. A minimum of three-quarters of the staff Mr. Jo:nes: We would also like to hear will be Australian, mainly from the Yeppoon about something that is in the Bill. and Rockhampton areas. The foreign staff mainly, perhaps, will be Japanese and other Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: The honour­ nationalities working at the international vil­ able member will hear about what is in lage complex. The resort will be open to all the Bill. In the meantime, I will give visitors whether Australian, Japanese or other honourable members opposite a little more nationalities. to think about. Would they like me to tell what the Trades and Labor Council have A Government Member: Even the A.L.P. been trying to do with the S.G.I.O. in relation to buying the Trades Hall site, Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: Yes. I suppose building another Trades Hall and providing they will even get down to letting the A.L.P. the finance? Do they want me to tell all in, because the resort will be open to every­ about that? one. Mr. Iwasaki will have to meet the tough­ Honourable Members: Yes. est conditions ever imposed on a tourist Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: I'll bet they're developer in Queensland. He will provide ashamed of it. I will tell all. If they can 77 hectares of public recreation area within get the Leader of the Opposition to write me the resort-the only tourist resort in Queens­ a letter asking me to reveal all of the details land to do so, or ever called upon to do I will. They would be the first to complain. so. I will summarise the other points very An Opposition Member: Because he has quickly. The Yeppoon resort will generate been given so much. some 460 jobs directly and a host of other jobs indirectly in the first five years, Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: He has been rising-- given nothing. He is paying for everything. The public-in this case day trippers-will Mr. Jones: Who for? be able to park without charge and visit most Mr. B.JELKE-PETERSEN: For Queens­ areas of the resort without charge. The landers. Mr. Iwasaki will pay them. only area where there will be a parking fee and an admission fee will be the Aus­ Mr. .Jones interjected. tralian bird and wildlife park at the northern end, on the lines of Lone Pine Sanctuary Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: The honour­ in Brisbane or Marineland at Southport. able member is a racist-that's all-the way The Government has granted a reduction he is carrying on. in the buffer zone between the resort and Opposition Members interjected. the sea for two reasons. The beach and 592 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill

surf at Y eppoon are sheltered by Great Kep­ Australian would want a share now, particu­ pel Island and Mr. Iwasaki is legally obliged larly as there is little chance of any profit to undertake all necessary works to protect for at least the first 10 years. the dunes and foreshores and is entirely Mr. Burns, the wrecker, has claimed that responsible for the restoration of any erosion Mr. Iwasaki has obtained valuable land or damage by storms or cyclones. He, not cheaply. the Government, will have to pay for pro­ tection and restoration works, unlike other Mr. Burns: Of course he has. resort areas in Queensland. Mr. B.JELKE-PETERSEN: Well, the fact Mr. Jones: What's so different about that? is that before Mr. Iwasaki came along, one When has the Government ever paid for subdivision on the resort site had to be anybody's property? resumed by the shire council to recover outstanding rates. The owners had held the Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: The honourable land for some 30-odd years and they could member is so ignorant. What about all of not sell even one allotment out of it. That the groynes? What about the millions of shows the importance of it. dollars spent on the Gold Coast resort? Mr. Burns: That was after the war, in Mr. Jones interjected. about 1948. Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: The honour­ Mr. B.JELKE-PETERSEN: They have not able member does not even know where been able to sell one allotment in that time. the Gold Coast is. Nobody has wanted to go there. Lastly, the outcry over what Mr. Burns The CHAIRMAN: Order! I suggest the calls Japs and other aliens owning land­ honourable member for Cairns restrain him­ what does he expect Mr. Iwasaki to do, roll self. up the land and ship it back to Japan? Mr. .Jones: One question, Mr. Hewitt. Doesn't he realise that most of the property on the Gold Coast, or a very large per­ The CHAIRMAN: Order! There is no centage of it, is controlled by Asians and provision for questioning. The Premier will other people? proceed. Mr. Burns: Shame! Mr. B.JELKE-PETERSEN: Honourable Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: Yes, shame. members will know that at low tide the Mr. Burns: Well, it is a shame. beach at Yeppoon is very wide and ideal in many respects. The fish habitat is not part Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: The Labor of the resort and special conditions in the Government was in power in Canberra for agreement prohibit any works or activities a long time and it controlled the inflow of that would cause any harm or damage to money and capital from other countries, so the fish habitat. I take it the Leader of the Opposition will An Opposition Member: How can you say "Shame" to it also. guarantee that? Mr. Burns: It is a straight-out sell-out of our lands and I say, "Shame". Mr. B.JELKE-PETERSEN: Goodness me. I know that if the honourable member Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: The Leader of were in charge of the Government he could the Opposition is talking like a two-year-old. not guarantee anything. Honourable Members interjected. A public road will run through part of the resort to a fishermen's landing on Fishing The CHAffiMAN: Order! Creek known as "R.ll". Mr. Iwasaki will have to provide a double-lane highway there. Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: I want to The land may not be subdivided without make it quite clear, as I have done on the permission of the Queensland Govern­ many occasions, that I welcome overseas ment. investment in Australia and Queensland in An Opposition Member interjected. order to create jobs and job opportunities and to develop our resources. We cannot Mr. B.JELKE-PETERSEN: Obviously the keep them to ourselves. I welcome Mr. honourable member does not expect his party Iwasaki as a man of initiative and drive. to become the Government. I would now like to outline the clauses All buildings and other improvements in the Bill. Because of the complexity of erected or constructed on the land must the proposal a large number of State comply with all relevant laws, by-laws and departments were involved, as well as the ordinances. The Government has power to Livingstone Shire Council and other statutory direct the company to take measures at its authorities. own cost to protect the environment. Mr. In order to co-ordinate the requirements Iwasaki will invite Australian participation of the various agencies involved and at the in the project when it becomes profitable. same time to prevent any problems in As he points out, it is most unlikely any communication from arising-- Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 593

Opposition Members interjected. Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: Yes; it is all set out very clearly in the Bill. This is a A Government Member: Are you calling deal between the Livingstone Shire Council the Livingstone Shire Council a mob of and the company, and the Government will crooks? play only a small role in that regard. Opposition Members interjected. Further provision exists for the company to be granted special leases over vacant The CHAIRMAN: Order! This Commit­ Crown land at Portion 16 (Sandy Point) and tee will come to order and if greater Portion 17 (Fishing Creek) Parish of Wood­ order-- lands, and, subject to the company satisfact­ orily completing Stage I of the resort, these Mr. Wright interjected. special leases may be converted to per­ petual leases. The CHAIRMAN: Order! The member for Rockhampton has been here long Part II also provides that the company enough to know that when I am on my feet donate parkland of 77 hectares for public he will restrain himself, as will every other use. member of this Committee. I am now telling Also, provision is made for buffer zones the Committee that greater order will be of 50, 80 and 150 metres in width to be observed while this debate is proceeding or established in which any works and beach I will have to invoke provisions of Standing protection measures must be undertaken to Orders. The Honourable the Premier. the satisfaction of the Minister. Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: I think the Mr. Bums: Is that land owned by the honourable members opposite should be the Queensland Government or by Iwasaki? last people to talk about any people being a bunch of crooks. Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: H is set out In order to co-ordinate the requirements in the Bill. of the various agencies involved and at the same time to prevent any problems in Opposition Members interjected. communication from arising, my Govern­ ment decided to enter into an agreement Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: Surely the with the company so that the rights and Leader of the Opposition can wait until the obligations of both the Government and the Bill is printed, and then read iL company would be clearly established and ratified by legislation. The company will be responsible for all I have said the development is a large restoration work as required. one. The total area involved is about 8 670 Any roads that are closed will be incor­ hectares (21,500 acres); the length of the porated into the area of the resort complex complex is about 20 kilometres (12;} miles) after sale to the company. and the maximum width about 8 kilometres (5 miles). In relation to water supply, the company is keen to prove up high quality potable The resort facilities, which will include groundwater resources. Part HI deals with hotels, motels, an international village, golf this matter and three years are allowed for course, museum and beach centres, will be this source to be proven. If not, the com­ concentrated on the coastal strip. pany may enter into an agreement with the The larger area to the west will be given Livingstone Shire Council for the supply of over to forests, wildlife parks, botanical town water. gardens, a golf course, wetland areas, a bird sanctuary and some housing areas for people Mr. Bums: After three years? such as resort management and staff. The general outline of the whole proposal Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: Yes; the com­ is set out as Schedule C to the agreement. pany has three years to prove the under­ ground water. This will be done under the The agreement is divided into five parts. supervision of the Irrigation and Water Part I, "Preliminary" deals with definitions Supply Commission. and general conditions, and specifies a ter­ mination period of 20 years, with provision Requirements for the acceptable treat­ for renewal for a period of up to 20 years. ment of waste waters and solid wastes are also set out in Part III. Stage I is to be completed by April 1984. Part IV deals with roads. Part II makes provision for the Crown to purchase land owned by the Livingstone For its part, the Government will accept Shire Council for $400,000, and for the responsibility for upgrading the Rockhamp­ Crown to sell this land to the company for ton-Y eppoon road and the declared road the same amount. from Y eppoon to the southern entrance to The company is required to donate a the resort, when required by increased further $400,000 to the State. traffic movements. We usually do this in any case in any part of the State, as we have Mr. Bums: Is that in the Bill? done with the road to the Gold Coast. 594 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill

Mr. Casey: You haven't done that in Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: Under the North Queensland. It's a bit rough up in agreement the lands in the resort complex North Queensland. What about the tour­ area will be deemed to be wned for the ists who want to go up there? Are you purposes of the resort complex. The com­ going to do a deal with them? pany will have to follow normal procedures with respect to building approvals. Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: The honour­ Provision is also made for the develop­ able member has been lucky. Mackay has been treated very well. ment of freshwater ornamental lakes in the resort area. For its part, the company must provide I reiterate that the Bill is necessary to an access road behind the hotel's area and facilitate the early commencement of devel­ also provide eight public access routes from opment works in the Y eppoon area. this road to the beach, four of which must be built by 1984. These facilities must be The large work-force required and the available to the public during daylight hours. obvious ongoing labour demands, together To preserve public access to landing reserve with the high level of company spending R.ll on Fishing Creek, the company must that must occur in the district, will be of provide a two-lane road, at its cost, and major benefit to the State, and particularly then have the road dedicated as a public to that part of Queensland, these factors road. being additional to the benefits of having one of the best resort areas in the world General matters are set out in Part V. drawing tourists to Queensland. Provision is made for lands within the I say that Mr. Iwasaki, Snr., and Mr. resort area to be subdivided and sold with Iwasaki, Jnr., and their company are to the approval of the Governor in Council. be commended; I commend them myself. This provision will be very closely policed. This will allow the company to encourage I commend the motion to the Committee. other financiers to build specific elements of the complex such as hotels. Any land sold Mr. BURNS (Lytton-Leader of the to such a developer immediately falls out­ Opposition) (2.46 p.m.): I oppose aliens side the agreement. owning Queensland land freehold. I do not believe in the sell-out of our nation's The company has the right to lease sub­ land to aliens from any country. This is divided lands for such operations as are my country, this is my State, and I want provided for in the agreement. to leave it as a heritage for my children. Environmental studies have been con­ I do not, and will not, accept that the ducted since the beginning of 1977. Under Government should manipulate the laws of the agreement all such studies must be under­ this land to let Iwasak:i take over our State taken in a manner that is satisfactory to and our land. the Minister. Mr. Iwasaki's company has already spent over $100,000 to this point. Dr. SCOTT-YOUNG: I rise to a point of The Governor in Council can order cer­ order. I object to the Opposition Leader's tain measures and such orders will be obli­ statement. I happen to belong to the Scotch, gations under this agreement. the Irish and the Welsh-- Other environmental control laws such as Opposition Members interjected. the Clean Waters Act and Clean Air Act will also apply. The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honour­ able member for Townsville will resume his Mr. Burns: Everybody else has to comply seat. There is no point of order. with those laws. What is different about him? Mr. BURNS: Thank you, Mr. Hewitt. Mr. JUELKE-PETERSEN: They all apply Honourable members opposite can waste all to it. the time they like. I will make it a bit clearer still. I will trade with the Japanese; Mr. Burns: Why apply those three? I will buy a transistor from them, sell them our coal and our wheat; but I do not Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: The Bill sets want them owning the freehold land of out very clearly that Mr. Iwasaki has to this State or my country. I am ashamed comply with all the requirements of those of the Government members who are sit­ laws, as do other people. Indeed, more ting over there and saying to the millionaire stringent controls have been placed on Mr. Iwasaki, "You can have 20,000 acres of Iwasaki's projects than on any other pro­ our land, and we will twist the laws to jects. help you get it." An Opposition Member: Will the Min­ Mr. B.JELKE-PETERSEN: I rise to a ister for Local Government organise a point of order. I heard the Leader of quarry on the land? the Opposition say that we twisted the laws to make it possible. I indicate to Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: A quarry? the Leader of the Opposition that the con­ An Opposition Member: Yes. ditions imposed on Mr. Iwasaki are more stringent that those imposed on any other The CHAIRMAN: Order! development. That is completely incorrect. Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement !Bill' 595

The CHAIRMAN: Order! I suggest to We have not received it yet. The Premier the Leader of the Opposition that he should \Vent on to say- at least wait to see the Bill before he "This plan will have to outline amongst makes judgments such as that. other things the engineering basis for the project, proposed environmental safeguards Mr. BURNS: The Opposition will wait and environmental impact study and the to see the Bill, Mr. Hewitt, but I am arrangements for financing it." making the point very clearly that the Premier has said, "We are introducing a The Premier added- special franchise agreement for this man"­ "Only then will a decision be made." a special franchise agreement for Iwasaki a Where is this detailed plan demanded bv special Bill for Iwasaki-and I will bet ~Y Sir Charles Barton and the Cabinet? Where bottom dollar that somewhere in that agree­ is the environmental study commissioned bY ment the Government is changing the laws Iwasaki and also the one demanded by the to suit Iwasaki, just as it did in relation Federal Government? Is it true that the to the land in the Livingstone Shire. Iwasaki project environmental study has been This curious agreement goes back to 27 handt;d down and is to be kept by the April 1965, when the National-Liberal Gov­ Premier, and that only Iwasaki will let it ernment changed our laws to allow foreign out? ownership of freehold land in Queensland. Since then we have lost thousands of acres This Parliament is being asked to make a to overseas speculators through the clever decision inside a fortnight on this highlv promotion of fanciful, wild-cat schemes that contentious legislation while vital information rarely, if ever, eventuate. From newspaper is withheld from it, while information con­ report~ in the past. 24 hours, there are very sidered essential by the Government's own real signs that this latest deal will end in investigators remains the secret possession of the same category. a few Cabinet Ministers. The Opposition condemns the establish­ From my own research into this matter, ment of foreign colonies on our ocean front I have no hesitation in describing this legisla­ and believes freehold land restraints on tion as a "real estate agreement". According aliens must be re-imposed in the Lands Act. to the Lands Minister, Iwasaki's landholding I do not concede for a moment that the now totals 20,687 acres (11,749 of them free­ price of international relations is the hold), and this legislation increases it still betrayal of our heritage, the unconditional further. This is far more than the entire sell-out of Queensland soil thousands gave tourist area of the Gold Coast; it is 285 their lives to develop and secure. times the size of Disneyland, near Los Angeles. Labor is far from satisfied with the Pre­ mier's explanations, far from satisfied with Let the Premier say now how much the way the original concept of this pro­ Iwasaki needs for his tourism resort, and ject appears to change with each newspaper what assurances he has given the Government edition. We are alarmed-

I have been told-I am unable to con­ acting in an individual capacity and is in firm it-that Japanese people who make no way an official spokesman for the party, donations to Governments are entitled to nor does he necessarily reflect party think­ claim such donations as tax deductions. Will ing and attitudes in these matters." I wasaki be able to claim such a gift as a tax deduction? Further, has the Under The honourable member should not tell me Treasurer of this State given advice to the that I do not know what I am talking about; effect that the $400,000 donation will be his State President said clearly that the regarded by the Grants Commission as a honourable member himself does not know financial windfall? If so, will the Living­ what he is talking about. If I were the stone Shire Council now suffer a disadvant­ honourable member, I would not interject age in the allocation of funds by the Grants again. Commission? Can the Premier give these The former Co-ordi.nator-General, Sir assurances? Charles Barton, recommended that the The Government is acting as a real estate esplanade be surrendered to the Crown. I agent for Iwasaki. The area of 262 acres want to know what the Government is doing goes right down to the high-water mark. about that. He said- Under the provisions of the agreement, the "An area of the foreshore approximately State Government obtains title to the land, 150 m from high water mark along the and sells to Iwasaki land to the high-water full length of the seaward boundary of the mark. When Sir Charles Barton was Co­ resort should be surrendered to the Crown ordinator-General he ensured that under the for development as a recreation space for Beach Protection Act land five to seven an esplanade should they be acquired by chains back from any beach front would Iwasaki." not be sold. That was part of the Gov­ ernment's policy. So the Government bought We have been told about 50 metres here and the land from the Livingstone Shire Council 80 metres there. Sir Charles Barton said that and is selling it to Iwasaki. I expect to see freeholding and subdivision of land in this in the agreement a clause stating that at area was undesirable, but the Government least that area of freehold land will be held is now recommending it. He also recom­ in our name-in the Queensland Govern­ mended a performance deposit and asked ment's name-for Queensland people and what would happen if Iwasaki decided to let for their benefit. the project go-how the Livingstone Shire I want to know the Government's inter­ Council and the people of Yeppoon would pretation of "high-water mark" and "low­ be able to put up with it? He referred to water mark". I know what beach land is. a restrictive trade practice provision being I have checked with some Government placed in the Bill to ensure that the tourist departments as to the nature of the land. I trade is not catered for only in package think that what the Government is telling deals. us is that we will be able to use our beaches He referred also to land not covered by between high-water mark and low-water mark the agreement and about water supply prob· when the tide is out. I would like to know lems. We have been told that three years whether Mr. Iwasaki will have incorporated in will elapse before Iwasaki has to prove the the agreement his statement that he will let water supply. Under those circumstances, Australians use his land. I want to know knowing the local water supply problems, we what will happen after I have driven my cannot be sure of any rapid development in motor bike or other conveyance to Sandy this area in the next few years. Sir Charles Point to go fishing and later, when the tide Barton also referred to problems in the fish­ is in, have to drag my way back above ing habitat reserve and to the large number the high-water mark, across Iwasaki land. of fishermen who earn a living from the Corio Will Cabinet say after a few months, "We Bay wetlands and the fishing nurseries. cannot let Australians do that in this great man's resort"? He made all of those references when recommending to the Government that a Mr. HARTWIG: I rise 1o a point of detailed plan be produced. That was accepted order. The Leader of the Opposition has and endorsed by the Premier in his statement not been there and does not know what he in the House. We want to see the detailed is ·.talk·ing a>bout. plan and the environmental impact study that has been held so conveniently in the The CHAIRMAN: Order! There is no background or in the dungeons in the poirut of order. Executive Building. Mr. BURNS: In response to the honour­ Labor says the Government has entered able member who said that I do not know this agreement with a reckless disregard of what I am talking about, I shall quote a the warnings of its own Barton committee. letter dated 15 April 1975, written by Bob It has acted as the real estate agent to allow Sparkes, the State President of the National this Japanese promoter ownership of far Party, who said- more of our coastal land than he will ever "Regarding the actions and utterances need for his legitimate tourist enterprises. of Lindsay Hartwig, I think it is pertinent It has, for ridiculously low prices, aided the that I should point out that he has been hand over of huge areas of our beach front, 598 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill

in one case to the high-water mark, on the Let us hear the full story. There must basis of wildcat proposals now more doubtful be more information. All environmental than ever. studies must be tabled. The detailed plan I challenge the Government to say what called for by the Barton committee and explanations it has given to Canberra to endorsed by the Premier in his ministerial justify the establishment of this Japanese statement to this House must be tabled. colony so close to our defence base at Shoal­ The reasons why so many of these expert water Bay. We should not have any foreign recommendations have been swept aside must colony so near to such an important defence be explained to each and every member of base. this Parliament. Labor will demand a buffer esplanade, I want to know why this man has been owned and controlled by Queensland, of allowed to acquire so much land for a 150 metres, as recommended by the Barton project that is more questionable than ever, committee-not the 50 and 80 metres the and why the Government has acted as his Government now finds satisfactory. agent in his profitable pursuits. What action I am told that the Government's assurances does the Government plan if Iwasaki dis­ on the use of the beach are worthless. honours his undertakings? What can be done Iwasaki will provide walking tracks from if he fails to meet his tourism obligations parking lots to the beach front which will and relies instead on the more profitable close from sunset to sunrise. No-one will ventures of real estate? be able to go down his little access roads No-one wants another Commonwealth­ after sunset. No-one will be able to do any State show-down on environmental grounds, fishing at night. There will be none of the as occurred at Fraser Island. But this former fishing for tailor and bream on those Government has made it clear that it will beaches, because he will close off the parking not wait, that it will not defer this legisla­ areas. There will certainly be one public tion until Federal studies are finished. road that the Government will keep open, but the catch is that, with the narrow I am ashamed at the way Iwasaki can esplanade approved by the Government, there bend this Cabinet around his little finger in will be no parking available in that area, and this traitorous sell-out of our soil and sand. anyone wanting to swim will have to pay I am shocked at the way the Government Iwasaki to park and use his walking tracks. has joined with him to assist his land I am told also that, with the narrow buffer acquisitions at the expense of the !basic rights zone, the only time the beach will be capable of our fellow Australians. of use by swimmers or four-wheel-drive (Time expired.) vehicles will be at low tide. Anyone driving along the beach from Yeppoon to Sandy Cape must either do so at low tide or seek Hon. J. D. HERBERT (Sherwood-Minis­ Iwasaki's permission to trespass on his land. ter for Welfare) (3.7 p.m.): Today, Burns I have no doubt that, with the control he the racist has been exposed. Here we have exercises over this Cabinet, he will soon put a man leading an Opposition appealing to a stop to this. By ignoring its own experts' the basest instincts of the ignorant and the recommendations on the width of the buffer uninformed. It is an incredible situation. zone, the Government has effectively imposed The Leader of the Opposition is telling a curfew on the use of the beach by visiting every Italian cane farmer in North Queens­ Australians. No matter how it plays with land to go home. He is telling the Ameri­ words and misrepresentations, it has also cans who have developed cattle properties in left every Queenslander going to the project Cape York Peninsula to go home. He is with little choice other than to pay the telling the people who have provided the parking charges of Iwasaki. money for the development of the Gold In simple terms, whether the Premier Coast, including the high-rise development argues otherwise or not, we have lost our that generates a tremendous amount of freedoms in relation to this beach. Iwasaki employment in that area, to go home. It is has, in practice, been given authority by absolutely ridiculous. this Government to construct and operate toll This country was built by people who came tracks to and from the beach. He will from overseas and worked the land. People be able to decide how much to charge and have come from all over the world-Irish­ the conditions of use. men, Italians and even Danes--to take up Labor says there is too much as yet land here and contribute to the development unexplained; too much information still of this country. So the message has come secret from the Parliament. This is the loud and clear to every man in this country strangest real estate deal in our history, a who was not born in Australia to go home deal in which a foreign national has accumu­ because Mr. Burns does not want him. lated a coastal empire without contributing It is just as well for this country that he anything more than a few promises. Labor will never be in a position to put that sort condemns the provision requiring a State of proposition into effect. environmental study to satisfy only the Prem­ After the racist attack, he talked about ier, a Premier who, not so long ago, wanted this project competing with other tourist to drill the Barrier Reef and mine beautiful operations in the Y eppoon area. That again Cooloola. shows his complete ignorance of the tourist Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 599 trade. The more facilities, the more industry The intention of Mr. Iwasaki to foster the is generated. A wonderful example of that use of the Japanese language in the areas is, can be found in the Whitsunday islands, of course, a very important thing because where the tourist operators are nominally in the Japanese are the world's greatest travel­ opposition but in actual fact help one lers and a percentage of the visitors to this another in their programmes. resort will be Japanese and they will require to be spoken to in their own language, in Then there was talk about giving this exactly the same way as we want hotel staff land to Mr. Iwasaki. He bought this land to speak to us in English when we go to on the open market. It was land that nobody Japan. dse wanted. The land is so hungry in some areas that even the sandflies have to carry There are many members in this a ·cut lunch. It has been there for years and Assembly who have had the opportunity of years and nobody had shown the slightest seeing the Iwasaki development in Japan. I interest in it until Mr. Iwasaki, with his vis­ was the first one to see it and I can say that ion, saw its potential. it is a remarkable tribute to the vision of one man because when he started that Then there was all the rubbish about sell­ project in Japan he was rubbished there and ing our land and selling our birthright. Mr. was told that it would be a complete and h\asaki has already been told that Governor absolute wash-out, but today we find that in Council's approval of land sales is required. he has got one of the most successful opera­ I hope that the Leader of the Opposition tions possible. would know at least that Orders in Council There has been a lot of talk about honey­ are subject to parliamentary scrutiny. Of moon trees. Of course, that is very much course they are, and a block of land can­ a gimmick. It is only a very small segment not be sold without those Orders in Council of the hotel operation. In fact, Mr. Iwasaki lying here and being the subject of debate has lumber interests of some magnitude in i£ we think fit. other parts of Japan and that is where he I came into this matter very early in the made his money originally. piece. I was the Minister for Tourism at When Mr. Iwasaki finally decided that he tihte time the very first approaches were would invest in Queensland, he wanted a made. Mr. Iwasaki was interested originally joint venture. He tried hard for a joint iiill a project in the South Pacific. Then he venture. On his behalf I afforded intro­ centred more on a project in Australia and ductions to institutions in Australia that at that time every Australian Government may have been interested in a joint venture, was more than interested in getting him to and each of them turned it down flat. No invest his money. The most interested man Australian financial institution would look of all was Mr. Taylor, who was the Minister at an investment where there would be no for Tourism in the Western Australian Labor return for 10 years and doubtful thereafter. Government. He made bid after bid to get I can't say that I blame them. However, it Mr. Iwasaki into Western Australia. Mr. was not my judgment; it was thei.r o":n Burns here, with his racist attitude, is totally judgment that they would not enter mto It, different from Mr. Taylor, who had the so that Mr. Iwasaki then had to go it alone. tourist responsibilities in the Labor Govern­ He has indicated publicly that he is prepared ment in Western Australia. Fortunately, his to sell shares in it and that he is prepared overtures were not good enough; Yeppoon to enter into a joint venture if he can find had the obvious final attraction. someone who is prepared to take on the Mr. Iwasaki said at the very beginning, responsibility. If this does occur, of course, and he is still saying the same thing, that he a great deal of this area could be owned by wants to build a major international tourist Australians, which would be a good thing. resort that will be open to everyone. We Mr. Lane: You are an old digger, too, have not got a resort of that sort in Queens­ aren't you? land, certainly not away from the Gold Coast. We do need a resort like it, and it is Mr. HERBERT: I was told from Wynnum the sort of thing that will be of tremendous today that Mr. Burns tried to organise an value to Central Queensland in more than Anzac Day procession yesterday with the one direction. marchers holding anti-Iwasaki banners. Of We have already spoken about employ­ course, that is the sort of racist attitude that ment prospects. These are not confined to we would expect from him. the 400 to 500 workers who will be initially Mr. Iwasaki has pointed out time and time employed because there is all the back-up again that he does not wish to provide a employment that will be involved in looking Japanese resort in Queensland. He has got .after that workforce. The eventual work­ a very good one in Japan. What he wants to force will number thousands, which will give provide is an Australian resort. He wants to Central Queensland a very great reservoir staff it with Australians except for the very to call upon because jobs of that nature are few people who would be required to do not subject to the seasonal fluctuations that the obvious things such as a Japanese chef to many of the other occupations in Central look after Japanese breakfasts. It is the same Queensland have to suffer. This will give when we go to Japan; we want an Aust­ Central Queensland a stable base for employ­ ralian breakfast before we go out to see the ment for the young people in the area. sights. We don't expect to have to put up 600 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill

with what we would regard as unusual food, the Department of Immigration has very and the Japanese are the same. So he will definite views on people entering Australia. have to bring in some people to look after Our own Department of Labour Relations certain of the cooking facilities and to supervises all projects that are undertaken interpret. He also indicated to me that he in the State, and the only Japanese workers was prepared to put in an Australian under­ involved will be the specialists. study for each one of those people and Mr. Iwasaki has the greatest nursery of when that understudy was adequately trained, eucalypts anywhere in Japan. He has been he would send the Japanese national home experimenting with them for year~ur own and leave the Australian in that job. So he trees. So that the bird population will not would have a resort where visitors would be disturbed, he has bought land specifically see and speak to Australians, and would see to stop land developers from felling trees. Australiana in the various parks that he intends to provide around the resort. That is I have had the opportunity of inspecting all a part of international travel. Mr. Iwasaki several of the national parks Mr. Iwasaki would have a great deal of difficulty in selling has provided in Japan. They are not the to Japanese the idea of travelling all the same as ours because the Japanese situation way to Australia to see a Japanese resort. is different. They do not have wilderness areas, but the parks he has provided are a Other countries are very interested in this tremendous asset to the people in the area project. The Germar..s, who now have a in which they are situated and are a tre­ very big group travel operation in the Pacific, mendous tribute to a man who is prepared intend to use this resort when it is developed. to put some of his money back into the That is the sort of interest we want, because community which provided him with his not only will people come into the Central original financial successes. As a matter of Queensland area, but there will be a spread­ fact, in a village near his major hotel in out effect into other parts of Queensland. Japan the villagers have erected a monument This must inevitably follow any operation to him in recognition of the tremendous of this nature, because nowadays, although amount of work he has done which has led some group tours go to only one spot, most to his success. The people who work for travel to more than one area. Consideration him regard him as a first-class employer, but has already been given to bus tours from the irrespective of that, of course, the protection capital city to Yeppoon, which will enable that is afforded by Queensland laws will visitors to see a lot of the Queensland coast­ protect any of the Australians who obtain line. employment in the area both in the con­ The situation with international airlines is struction and operational phases. It will be that Air Niugini already lands in Japan near a very big day for the Queensland tourist one of Mr. Iwasaki's resorts, and they are industry when this Bill goes into the statute­ very interested in obtaining a franchise to book, and I support it. land in Rockhampton. This would lead to other international airlines landing in Queens­ Mr. PREST (Port Curtis) (3.20 p.m.): In land, which is something we have wanted for speaking to the motion, I point out first that a number of years. If they cannot land in I am not opposed in any way to the devel­ Rockhampton they can certainly use Towns­ opment of the tourist industry. However, I ville, which would require even further travel do question this project. It has been under down the coast into the Rockhampton area. discussion for quite some time and many changes have been made in the proposals. Rockhampton will benefit in a number of ways, because Mr. Iwasaki is investigating the We find, too, that there has been bending possibility of a new airport in an area closer and changing of the principles of land ten­ to his resort which will be able to handle ure. The Leader of the Opposition spoke of all planes currently flying on international one instance in particular in his speech in routes. This would mean tremendous employ­ the Address-in-Reply debate, and I am cer­ ment prospects both in the construction and tain that it is quite plain to honourable operational phases. members who have read the letters written by the Minister for Lands at the time that So we have in front of us a proposition what was going on was not fair and above which I first heard of many years ago. There board. were many doubting Thomases around at that time, but most of them-the intelligent Then there is the handing over by the ones, at any rate--have looked at the project Livingstone Shire of land for sale to Iwasaki. and now feel that it will be of benefit to There is no doubt that that was a violation Queensland. I would imagine everyone of the Local Government Act. It was given would agree with me, after hearing the out­ to the Government to sell on behalf of the burst from the Leader of the Opposition, Livingstone Shire, whereas it should have which was not opposition to the project at been sold by public auction so that Aus­ all but just a straight-out racist attack on tralians, particularly Queenslanders, could the man who is going to provide a tremendous have had the opportunity to acquire it. The amount of money-money that will be spent land was handed to the Government, which in Queensland and to the ultimate benefit of then entered into a deal with Iwasaki. Queenslanders because almost all the work­ We find that Mr. Iwasaki now has 20,000- force on the project will naturally be Aus­ odd acres in this area, which is far in excess tralians. They will have to be, because of what he needs for a tourist development. Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 601

\Ve have heard that it will be as big as, if remember that the Japanese also are getting not bigger than Disneyland, which covers great benefits from the products that we are 30 acres. Why should Mr. Iwasaki need the selling to them. The Japanese are shrewd 21,000 acres that have been made available operators. The present agreement will be no to him? Today we read that he is to be more binding on the Japanese than the given the opportunity to subdivide this land coal agreement has been. They cut back and sell it back to Queenslanders at a hand­ under that agreement when they want to, some profit if he sees that they are willing just as they have done under the sugar to be touched. He is touching the people of agreement. Queensland, right, left and centre, and in Today the Government is doing every­ particular he is making a goat out of the thing possible to assist Mr. Iwasaki. Let Livingstone Shire Council, and that will be us consider the profits from this project. proved before very long. We hear that no profits are going to be In addition, the area in question is very made for the first 10 years. That would close to the Shoalwater Bay Army Camp, stop any Queenslander or Australian from and that is another reason why I, as a buying into the project if Mr. Iwasaki did Queenslander and an Australian, am some­ subdivide it. Who would be prepared to what against this project. put money into a project in which there Above all, the Premier's keenness to would be no profit for 10 years? Any assist makes me very dubious about the profits that are made will be made by the proposal. In the last six months we have Japanese, and that money will go out of seen, as the Leader of the Opposition said, this country. the Premier's attitude to the Tarong power­ I do not go along with this franchise house and a number of other projects. I agreement. I never have, and I never will. do not care two hoots about the Premier. When the Government agrees to a secretive The people are now finding out what a franchise agreement, there must be some­ doubtful character he is. thing in it to be hidden. The franchise agreement should be tabled to enable all Mr. Lane: Marty Hanson would be honourable members to study it carefully ashamed of you. before the second reading of the Bill. The Australian Labor Party would like to see Mr. PRE'ST: And all the drunks that you the environmental impact study tabled. have rolled are ashamed of you, too, Mr. What is the good of these impact studies? Lane. They are out of date. They were paid The Premier is a great fighter today. He for by Mr. Iwasaki himself. He picked is willing to fight tooth and nail to assist the the company to do the studies. When he Japanese. However, he was not such a great is paying $100,000, naturally he expects to fighter a few years ago when the Japanese get a result favouring him and not against were threatening our soil. Today he is quite the project in any way. willing to make this a peaceful invasion. Mr. UNDERWOOD: I rise to a point Mr. Frawley interjected. of order. Are persons in the public gallery allowed to take notes during debates? One Mr. PREST: I might have done as much person is doing that at the moment. as the honourable member for Caboolture, and that would not have been very much. The CHAIRMAN: I thank the honour­ In a time of peace, the Premier's attitude able member for drawing it to my attention. is still the same. He is willing to allow the Japanese to come and take this country. Mr. PREST: The franchise agreement and In fact, that is what he is doing. environmental impact study should be tabled I was very surprised that an Australian so that they can be studied before the VI ould say that we, as Australians, owe a debate is concluded. lot to the Japanese. I am quite certain that I am certain that valuations in the Living­ many Australian families will never forget stone Shire are going to increase very the Japanese. They lost their husbands, sharply as from the inception of the pro­ their fathers, or their sons in the war. ject, so that eventually the ordinary citizens Recently in this Chamber we paid our of that area will have enormous rate increases respects to a Minister of the Government imposed on them by the Livingstone Shire whose shortness of life was attributed to the Council. treatment meted out to him by the Japanese The Premier pointed out certain things a few years ago. Things such as that can be that would be done by the Livingstone Shire forgotten by people like the Premier who Council and by Iwasaki. He did not say are trying to make a quick quid not only who would be meeting the costs. This is for the Government-in fact, I do not think something that we will be very interested there is much in this for the Government­ in finding out. Who is going to meet the but also for some political parties. I think cost of providing water to the Iwasaki pro­ that is why the National Party is now saying ject should the underground system fail that this is such a wonderful project. within three years? When we say we owe a lot to the Japan­ The most pleasing part of the Bill deals ese and that we are getting benefits from with the road-works between Rockhampton trading with the Japanese, I think we should and Y eppoon. It will come as a pleasant 602 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill surprise to Central Queensland to hear that authority in the area to be given a say in roads are to be upgraded. Of course, it the planning and provision of amenities and will be to the benefit of Mr. Iwasaki that facilities. at last we will be getting something done about roads in that area. I do not think Hon. R. J. HINZE (South Coast-Minister that a great amount of money has been for Local Government and Main Roads) (3.34 spent on the road between Rockhampton p.m.): I rise to indicate my support for the and Y eppoon in the last 30 years. Never­ introduction of the Bill, whereby the Govern­ theless, I am very pleased to hear about ment of Queensland enters into a franchise this. The most pleasing part of the Bill agreement with the Iwasaki Sangyo Co. is the one ensuring that money will be By their contributions, the two speakers spent on road improvements in Central for the Opposition have indicated their total Queensland. I thank the Minister for Local ignorance of the provisions contained in the Government and Main Roads for that. I Bill. In his reference to aliens, the Leader hope he will get away from the mirror of the Opposition indicated quite clearly and look at the roads instead of saying where he stands. He would not like to see all the time, "I will look into it." any development unless it was undertaken by We have heard of the great employment people from Roumania, Bulgaria, the Union opportunities that will be created. Yes, the of Soviet Socialist Republics, Red China o:r project could create some employment in the North Vietnam. He would welcome people early stages-for bulldozer drivers and others. from those countries, alien or otherwise, with However, the Opposition would hope that open arms. If the developer came from the agreement ensures that any construction any of those places, he would offer no opposi­ work will be carried out by Australians, that tion. is, by members of our various trade unions. In 1978, after giving consideration to the \Ve do not want to see Japanese coming proposal for years, all that the Leader of into this country and introducing cheap the Opposition could do was refer specifically labour. As the Government is apparently to a report made by a committee comprising going to allow the project to proceed, we certain Government officers, which was want to ensure that the work on the project chaired by Sir Charles Barton. The Leader is done by Australians for Australians. of the Opposition built his case on that How will the Japanese big spenders be report. entertained? The Premier is a very Christian Governments get reports and they make man; he is against the evil of sin. Yet he their decisions. Honourable members will is giving approval to the establishment of a recall quite clearly that negotiations on this centre that will eventually employ call girls project were going on and on. It became and have in it massage parlours and brothels. obvious to everyone in Queensland and It is a certainty that within a very short throughout Australia that Mr. Iwasaki, an time a casino will be built in the area. For elderly gentleman, was buying land in Central a long time the Government has succeeded Queensland. We were forming our ov.n in keeping casinos out of Queensland; but opinions about what was to happen with the the Japanese are noted for that sort of thing. project. We kept hearing stories that the They go in for that type of entertainment. hold-up was caused by the Government or I am quite certain that the Government will by the local government, or that Mr. Iwasaki be looking forward to the day when Aus­ was complaining that he could not get his tralian girls will be members of the work­ story across and could not make any head­ force employed to cater for the very rich way. He wanted to set up in Central Queens­ gentlemen who will visit the centre. land a specific tourist industry but it appeared Although the Y eppoon area is notorious that, on all sides, he was being blocked. He for its sand-flies, it is also noted for its came back again and made a further request. fishing grounds. Local fishermen are con­ My leader, the Premier, suggested to me cerned that the establishment of the project that I should go to the Livingstone Shire could bring about the destruction of an indus­ Council and talk to the council because about try that is worth $3,000,000 a year to them. 260 acres of land adjacent to this project I am certain that the member for Callide was considered necessary by Mr. Iwasaki to is deeply concerned about this. He should tie up the whDle area. be making sure that his Government takes Mr. Houston: So you interfered. steps to see that the local fishermen are not thrown out of their jobs by the raising of Mr HINZE: I ·wH! ~ell honourable mem­ the wetland area by 15 feet. If Mr. Iwasaki bers the full story. does that, he will destroy an area that has I went to Rockhampton. I phoned the for many years been a marvellous breeding shire chairman, Councillor Wall, and asked ground for fish and prawns. him to meet me. He said, "Not only will I As members of the Opposition have said, meet you, but I will bring the full council we are not against tourism. We are opposed, to meet you." We held a meeting and we however, to this project and the secrecy discussed this project. It became perfectly surrounding it. But as the project will, no obvious to me that the council was in agree­ doubt, be commenced, we want to ensure that ment and wanted tD make a deal. The we have Australian participation, particularly councillors wanted Iwasaki to develop this in the work-force. We also want the local area. They were not worried about all the Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 603

hotchpotch and poppycock stories we had do not want to do anything to develop been hearing, particularly the one concerning this State. All they want to do is knock which the Leader of the Opposition fell it down. flat on his face yesterday, when he tried to The honourable member for Port Curtis associate Anzac Day with the Iwasaki deal. referred to the Livingstone Shire Council as He received letters and telegrams from a bunch of crooks. Imagine a member of many people in Rockhampton yesterday this Parliament referring to a local council saying, "Get your sticky fingers out of it. in his area as a bunch of crooks. Don't try to tell us about Anzac Day. If Mr. Burns: What did you saY about the you do, you will fall flat on your face. We Gold Coast council? know the war has been over since 1945. We have been trading with these people. They Mr. HINZE: I am a pretty rough diamond are one of our biggest overseas trading but I would not refer to even the Brisbane partners. We depend on them for the sale City Council as a bunch of crooks. We have of our sugar, coal and a lot of other things." a couple of those aldermen in Parliament But the Leader of the Opposition does not I would not even refer to them as crooks. know anything about that. Mr. D'Arcy: What did you do with Today the Leader of the Opposition Gold Coast City Council? referred to "aliens". He did not want to sell any of our special land to aliens. In Mr. HINZE: They want to know about fact, he almost offended me. My grandfather the Gold Coast City Council. \\as an alien. His name was Hinze. He came here, and now I own some land. The Leader The CHAIRMAN: Order! We will have of the Opposition should not like that. But no discussion about the Gold Coast City if my grandfather had come from Peking, Council. Rumania, Bulgaria or Russia, he would have thrown his arms around him. Because we Mr. HINZE: Thank you, Mr. Hewitt. are a free-enterprise Government, we are These honourable gentlemen opposite are interested in trading. Under 1912 legislation trying to upset me but they have no chance; aliens were not allowed to own land in you will not let them. Queensland. What did we do? In 1965 we I will talk about the franchise agreement. amended the Act to allow ownership of land Frankly I agree 100 per cent with our by aliens. Why? Because Queensland was leader, the Honourable the Premier, in his the odd State out; it was the only State in decision and in his determination to try to Australia that would not allow aliens to own get this project settled. in Central_ Que~ns­ land. As some Opposition members would land. During consultatiOns and dtscussiOJ?'S recall, in tlwse days people elsewhere were with the mayor of Rockhampton (Mr. Pil­ saying that we were banapalanders and beam) and a few other people around the calling us other awful names. We were out town Mr. Pilbeam said, "If I could get of step. In 1957 we followed a Labor Iwas~ki to Rockhampton, I would give him administration which just about had the State the land." He would know something about on its knees. Central Queensland. He has been living What has happened since then? What there long enough to know. did the honourable member for Port Curtis Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: Nobody has done say a few minutes ago? He said, "I will never more for Central Queensland than Rex have anything to do with franchises." But Pi! beam. he represents Port Curtis! He represents the Gladstone area! How did the Gladstone Mr. HINZE: As my ministerial colleague area develop? About 15 years ago it looked said, no-one has done more for Central like Yeppoon. But what did this Govern­ Queensland than Rex Pilbeam. He has not ment do? It arrived at franchise agreements. gone overboard in making statements such What do we find now? An alumina plant as that one to me. He said, "If I could at Gladstone, a coal plant at Gladstone, a attract Iwasaki to the Rockhampton area, powerhouse and a smelter at Gladstone-all I would give him the land." undertaken by this Government under fran­ What did we do for the Livingstone Shire? chise agreements. We gave it the best deal it has made in_ its history. It received $850,000 for a pwce Mr. D'Arcy: Where is the smelter? of land that it took because of arrears of rates. The area was 260 acres. Our hon­ Mr. HINZE: It is about to be introduced ourable friends opposite say that we ;;re into the Gladstone area. giving away Queensland soil! I would like to see them or anybody else match that sort Mr. D'Arcy: When? of money. If we tipped all of the A.L.P. members upside down, we could not find Mr. HINZE: Very shortly. 850 marbles, let alone $850,000. When we do try, what do we get from My honourable friend the mem~r for members opposite? The same silly old story. Port Curtis referred to road-works m the When it comes to development in this State, area. Of course, as Minister for Main they are always there to knock it. They Roads, I indicated to the Iwasaki group that, 604 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill if and when this development got under Mr. HINZE: Never mind about Mr. way and the density of the traffic on the Iwasaki taking out Australian citizenship. If road increased because of people coming the honourable member goes over to Peking, through the Rockhampton area, I would he will be allowed to join the socialist certainly give consideration to the strenthen­ Republic of China. That is where he will end ing and widening of the road from Rock­ up. hampton to Yeppoon-at no cost to the council. There is nothing wrong with that. Some statements have been entirely mis­ We do that in every other area of the State. construed in order to cause some concern We will build the road from Yeppoon to among the Australian people, particularly the resort. There is nothing wrong with that. Queenslanders, that they are going to be Surely a free-enterprise Government such as kept off the beaches. Nothing is further this one would toss a sprat to catch a mack­ from the truth. If honourable members know erel, and on this occasion it is a pretty anything about the area at all, they will big one. know that it has the widest beaches in Queensland. There is no intention whatsoever He talks about the area of the land. He to restrict movement on the beaches. The asks, "Why does he require this enormous access road to the beaches, namely Hinz piece of land?" The answer, of course, is Road-named after the chairman of the simply because he intends to make it bigger Livingstone Shire, Mr. Hinz, who is not a than Disneyland. relation of mine--will be always open for Mr. Houston: It's not possible. access to the beaches. There will be eight access points to the beaches which will be Mr. HINZE: The honourable member can provided and kept open at all times except sit there and say with derision, "It's not from sunset to sunrise. There is nothing possible.", but this gentleman backs up his new about that policy. We do that already efforts with hard cash. in Queensland. Mr. Houston: Is he going to live for ever? An Opposition Member: Where? Mr. HINZE: The honourable member for Mr. HINZE: There is the Hinze Dam at Bulimba asks, "Is he going to live for ever?" Advancetown, which was named after my Frankly, I don't know. He is an old gentle­ wonderful grandfather. After sunset, one man, a nice old gentleman at that. How­ cannot travel up that road. Who closed it? ever, his son, too, is here in Queensland. I The Gold Coast City Council. Of course, suppose the honourable member would act if nobody knows about it, nobody cares. similarly. If he was sufficiently interested, Why did the council close it? Because of he would want to know that his investment the friends of honourable members opposite, was being protected. I would do the same. the vandals; if they get in, they will pull out That is why Mr. Iwasaki's son is in the the trees and knock down everything that precincts of the Chamber today. He is has been erected. If Mr. Iwasaki has to close interested in knowing how the money is the access points here, it will be for only one going to be spent and he is interested in reason-vandals. seeing that the investment is going to be passed in this Chamber, because it is a good A moment ago, I heard the honourable deal for them and for us. member for Port Curtis talking about brothels. He seems to know all about Mr. Houston: What about the land you brothels. If he wants to go down there and are giving away? have a night party, he can do so. Mr. Iwasaki has undertaken to provide access Mr. HINZE: It is a good deal for us, points to the beaches. Hundreds of thousands and if anybody says that we are giving any­ of people are going to get a Jot of enjoyment thing away, that just indicates his complete out of this resort. They are going to flock ignorance. We are not giving anything away. to this tourist area. When the Cabinet of this State, those 18 sensible gentlemen-- Mr. Iwasaki has also undertaken to build Honourable Members interjected. a road to a reserve called R11. I have flown over the area, driven over the area, and Mr. HINZE: Not only sensible, but very walked around the area. As the Minister in capable. charge of over 200 000 kilometres of road Mr. D'Arcy: Didn't you read the "Finan­ construction in this State, I know something cial Review" this morning? about the cost of road construction and I know that, when he sets out to build this Mr. HINZE: No, I didn't read the road to R.ll, he will have the job ahead of "Financial Review" this morning, and it's a him. He has written it into the signed agree­ wonder that the honourable member could ment. He said, "O.K. I'll build the road." read it at all. That is why he was sacked as When he does build it, I think he should be a school-teacher; he couldn't teach the kids able to expect the Livingstone Shire Council to spell. to take it over and maintain it, which it Mr. D'Arcy: Did you say Iwasaki is taking agreed to do, because it also knows it is out Australian citizenship? going to be a very costly road to construct. Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 605

No matter how anyone looks at it, the because he does not know the facts. Instead deal is on our side. It is one of the best of saying what he did today, he should deals that this State has ever made. I ask have at least had sufficient common sense myself, "What do we lose if something goes to wait and see the Bill. wrong?" Even if everything goes wrong, When it comes to the environmental nobody would be able to say that the impact study, Opposition members should Government of Queensland had spent a not try to cause a split between the Common­ brass razoo on this scheme. If anybody says wealth and the State. They are trying to me, "You have undertaken to spend to bring back the Fraser Island story. We something here, and if it goes wrong, where indicated that we needed an environmental is the money going to come from?", I can impact study, and it was carried out at a tell him that all the loopholes are closed. cost of $100,000. It is now in our posses­ If Mr. Iwasaki wants water for the project, sion and it will be tabled. Everything he has undertaken to buy it from the Liv­ that Opposition members can possibly ask ingstone Shire Council. Members of that and any arguments they like to produce council had discussions with me here last are answered in this environmental impact week. They said, "Will you please ask study. Mr. Iwasaki to buy his water from us?" I now want to talk about air fares. Jn Does . that sound like the request of a discussions I had last week with the Com­ council that is objecting? Is this the attitude monwealth Minister for Transport (Mr. of a local authority that does not want Nixon), I was told he believes he is getting Iwasaki in the area? Those honourable to the stage of a breakthrough in inter­ members involved with local government national air fares. This is exactly what we know that the greater the number of people want. Heavens above, anybody in the connected to a water supply, the less the tourist industry knows that the cost of air average charge. The Livingstone Shire fares is so high that it is very hard to Council is now saying, "Ask Iwasaki to con­ attract to Australia-"Down Under", as it is nect to our water supply scheme." because referred to by those hundreds of thousands if and \Vhen he does it will lower the aver­ of people who travel overseas every year. age water rate of the people of the Liv­ If the Federal Minister is on the verge ingstone Shire, and by a good deal. of a breakthrough in prices, surely it could Wherever we look, we see that develop­ not come at a better time, especially when ment on this area is to take place, and I in the next day or so we should see the say quite truthfully and rightly that the passage of this Bill through this Assembly. fishing industry there has to be protected. (Time expired.) I understand that it is worth in the vicinity of $9,000,000 a year. There is no way Mr. BLAKE (Bundaberg) (3.54 p.m.): We that this Government is going to throw that have heard Government speakers talk about overboard. This Government, through my this large proposed world -class tourist resort colleague the Minister for Maritime Ser­ and I do not think anyone is going to vices and Tourism, will certainly protect argue with that definition. With over the fishing industry. That is his duty, and 20,000 acres required for the resort, it must I understand he has everything under hand­ surely qualify as the largest tourist resort in hand-- in the world. Mr. Houston: Underhand. Our concern is whether or not the 20,000 acres is needed for what was proposed in Mr. HINZE: The honourable member the first place to be an international tourist knows more about underhand things than resort. The Minister for Local Government I. Many arguments have been thrown up said, "We are prepared to throw a sprat to against this project, but then this after­ catch a mackerel", which is a very nice noon we heard a concoction of untruths, sentiment indeed. Many Australians have particularly from the Leader of the Opposi­ expressed concern that the mackerel might tion, who does not understand anything turn out to he a shark which will swallow about the project. When the Yeppoon Australian assets at the rate that Mr. Iwasaki branch of his own party wrote to him and has apparently been able to do in obtaining said, "Look, brother, you are on the wrong control over 20,000 acres of Queensland tram; we are in favour of this", he neatly land. I think that is very important indeed. tore that letter up and threw it away. He was invited to a public meeting at We have heard from both the Premier Yeppoon. About 220 people attended it. and Government members who followed him I went there, but what happened? The in the debate slurs about the racist Austra­ Leader of the Opposition did not turn up. lian Labor Party members of the Opposi­ Mr. Hartwig: He chickened out. tion. When Government members skite about the migrants that have come here from Mr. HINZE: Yes, he chickened out. He many nations, I suggest that they look into did not have the guts to attend. But that the history books and see who brought them is by the way. That is all we expect here. It was the Labor Party that instituted from him. He has all these fairy-floss stories the immigration programmes under which churned out by Stanaway and handed to those honourable citizens were brought the Press, and of course they appear, but to Australia. However, Australian-born when it comes to facts he is sadly lacking citizens of migrant parents would be just 606 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill as much opposed to large areas of Queens­ The greatest cause for concern is that land land being freeholded to non-Austra­ so many Ministers now sitting on the Gov­ lians as honourable members on this side of ernment benches have expressed concern the Chamber would be. about freeholding of Australian land to non­ The Premier has accused the Labor Australian nationals, yet they are now pro­ Opposition of adopting smear tactics to ceeding in haste with this project. We have discredit the Iwasaki enterprise. Even if had the former Minister for Lands, the the voicing of the many genuine specific present Minister for Lands and the Premier fears that have been expressed to us by expressing concern about the passing of individuals and organisations is called smear­ Queensland land into the hands of non­ ing, we still have an obligation to see that Australian nationals. Mr. Sparkes, the Pres­ safeguards are built into this legislation to ident of the National Party in Queensland, ensure that their fears, or even parts of expressed the same concern. Whatever they their worst fears, are not realised in the think, whatever their fears are, and whatever future. Until we are satisfied that safe­ their present attitude, we have to find out guards are built in and that their fears are before we accept the Bill whether they are unfounded, we will continue to raise objec­ talking with tongue in cheek. tions. If evidence to that effect is not pro­ We hear through the Premier in this morn­ duced, the Bill before the Committee­ ing's newspaper about the guarantees given and I say this advisedly-could be legislative by Messrs. Iwasaki, Snr. and Jnr. It is betrayal of past, present and future genera­ not the guarantees by Messrs. Iwasaki, Snr. tions of Australians. and Jnr., that we are worried about. We If legislative protections are not built into have had guarantees in trade contracts with the Bill, what does that mean? It means Japan before. Certainly they were subject only that we have now arrived at a stage to negotiation. This is probably going to be in Australia's history that no other generation subject to negotiation, too. I am very con­ has reached. It means that Australia, with cerned about where further negotiation might its limited financial capacity in comparison lead, particularly in view of a question I with the bigger nations of the world and asked about a week ago. I drew the atten­ their bigger economies, and without safe­ tion of the House to the difference between guards, is on the auction block in the the public statements on land and its usage market-place and part of it, or all of it, in this project by two different Ministers. I could be bought by any international organ­ asked- isation throughout the world. That is why "With reference to the ministerial state­ the Opposition is concerned. ment by the Minister for Transport on 5 Of course, we have not yet had an oppor­ April that the land titles to be held by tunity to study the Bill, but we are con­ Iwasaki will be restricted by law in terms cerned to see that the fears expressed by of land-use and subdivision and the state­ many organisations-the Australian Conser­ ment in 'The Courier-Mail' of 23 March vation Council, littoral societies, central by the Minister for Local Government and coast fishermen; in fact, all sectors of the Main Roads that the franchise agreement Australian community-are taken into probably will have an escape clause, account. We include simple deprivations whereby Mr. Iwasaki could change the use such as people being deprived of the use of of the land under the agreement, in view their own inherited coastal beaches and of these totally different statements by the other places of recreation. former Minister for Lands and the present Local Government Minister, will he Mr. Porter: They are not going to be. enunciate the existing course of action of the State Government?" Mr. BLAKE: Well, if they are not going to be, we will not have a point. However, In fairness I will give the reply of the Minis­ we will not have it said of us that we are ter for Lands, Forestry and Water Resources. smearing because we wish to live up to our He said- obligations in that regard. "I do not think this is the time to The public is just as much concerned as attempt to deal with isolated and probably we are to know why a tourist resort requires out-of-context aspects of the proposed 21,000 acres. Perhaps it is more by now, agreement between the State and the at the rate at which land is being acquired, Iwasaki Sangyo Co. (Aust.) Pty. Ltd. apparently with the approval of the Gov­ "As the honourable member and the ernment. Concern has been expressed by the Leader of the Opposition are fully aware, cattlemen of this State about the eventual the proposed franchise agreement will be uses of some of these 21,000 acres. presented to the Parliament shortly, at which time specific matters can be debated Mr. Sullivan: Do you know the country? within the context of the whole agree­ ment." Mr. BLAKE: Yes, I know the country. If you can fill in swamps with a metre and Maybe so, but of course we are worried a half of soil for the sake of getting a about any escape clauses included in the toe-hold in the tourist industry of this coun­ agreement. It is vital to know what the try, you might do it for grazing purposes Government is allowing the land to be used in certain areas. for, if appropriate clauses are not built into (tueensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bift 607 the agreement to the satisfaction of the industry Iwasaki owns the Iwasaki Ringyo people of Queensland. We have not had Company, apart from the wood section of an opportunity to see whether the proposals Iwasaki Sangyo. Iwasaki Sangyo not conform to the recommendations made by only leads in business groups but is the Government's own departmental advisers. also the biggest stockholder of the Kago­ The previous speaker on the Government shima Bank. Obviously Iwasaki controls side remarked about the concern over the many companies, owns a great deal of real argument built on the Co-ordinator-General's estate and is engaged in many phases of report, which is commonly known as the operation. Barton report. Of course we are concerned whether the advice of departmental officers Would anyone honestly believe that this has been taken. What are those persons man could be so successful if he allowed there for if it is not to serve the Govern­ benefits from his operations to spin-off to ment? By serving the Government, of other people? I would suggest that the record course, they have to serve the people of of his achievements and success indicates Queensland to the best of their ability or pretty clearly to anyone with any busine~s they are failing in their duty. acumen that he will tie up any spin-off from his considerable investment-or as the Gov­ From the events that have happened and ernment would say, his very great capital the things that have been leaked to the Press investment-in this particular enterprise. it would seem that the recommendation about The Opposition would like to know what 150 m buffer zone between the sand dunes and conditions are placed upon Iwasaki to ensure the development has not been carried out in that there is a spin-off for the benefit of many cases. Of course that is a matter of con­ Australians. cern and a matter that we have to question to see where it takes us. We have to see I wonder why it is necessary for Iwasaki to whether benefits accrue to Australians from have 20,000 acres, much of it under freehold. this project. I am talking about the benefits I wonder whether the company requires that other than those that the Iwasaki company area of land to carry out its own farming does not want for itself. I am not the only or cattle-raising ventures. person who is interested in what spin-off benefits there are for Australians. The I recall that in my former electorate of people are worried about it and the Press Isis there was a certain holding that had a is worried about it. great deal of development carried out on it. I do not know in which electorate it is I could quote from an article in "The located now, the boundaries of mine have Courier-Mail" on April 20 headed "Will been changed so often; it might even be in Iw~saki benefit Queensland?", which was the Premier's electorate. The owner showed wntten by Jack Lunn who was just back it to me, saying that he had cleared many from Hawaii. While he was there he looked thousands of acres, laid underground water at what he terms the tourist invasion and mains, installed irrigation spray lines aboYe the. implications of the package deal, under ground and carried out a whole host of ~h1ch, presumably, Japanese pay an agency improvements. He said to me, "Don't you ~~ _Japan for a round trip. The Japanese think I have done a terrific job in develop­ visit an overseas country, spend some time ing this place?" I said, "Yes, I think you there and return to Japan, with very little have." He asked me, "Do you know what benefit accruing to the economy of the I am doing it for?" I replied, "Well, yes, country that they visit. but not specifically. What are you doing it for?" He said, "The Japanese are looking It is rele':ant to examine the type of busi­ for big properties in Australia because they nessma~ . this entrepreneur or operator Mr. want to breed their cattle, graze their cattle, Iwasak1 IS. I do this not in any disparaging fatten their cattle, slaughter their cattle, manner. transport their own beef to Japan, and seil it through their retail outlets." He went on Mr. Iwasaki organises a business combine to say, "I am looking for a Japanese buyer." kno~n as the Iwasaki Group, comprising 60 affiliated firms. The group deals in forestry I do not know whether he found one, but products, real estate, transport-including, the point is that the Australian beef indus­ buses, shipping, ferries and helicopter ser­ try would be in a very parlous state if the vices-tourist hotels, health centres and other Japanese were able to acquire such a large tourist services, such as amusement centres area of land in Queensland that they would drive-ins, swimming-pools, bowls clubs and be able to control beef production, might golf links. He is also involved in the food I say, from conception to consumption. industry, the chemical industry, newspapers Members of the Opposition are wondering and broadcasting. There is not much left. whether the Iwasaki project is being used The Iwasaki Group has a long history of merely as a springboard for further land timber interests. It operates at least four acquisition, and we are anxious to learn wood antiseptic processing companies; it whether the Government will impose any owns many forests in Kagoshima Prefecture limitations, other than financial, on the and almost monopolises mountains in the acquisition of land by the Iwasaki Group. Amami 0 Shima area. In the wood The Government should announce how much 608 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill land the Iwasaki company will be allowed to that Mr. Iwasaki cannot change his mind acquire and where it is situated. It appears and become an estate developer or engage that Mr. Iwasaki is a very persuasive man. in other than what he proposes, that is, a major tourist operation. It is our duty to do Since the Premier went to Japan under his that, and that is what we intend to do. If auspices, a great change has been wrought in the project is accepted, it will have to abide the Premier. Since I came here in 1968 I have by the requirements of the Environmental been asking the Premier to establish at least Protection (Impact of Proposals) Act 1972- one office in the Asian or Japanese area to 75, which, of course, is Commonwealth legis­ promote Australian trade. At the same time lation. We have a right to be concerned members of the National Party have been about the impact of this proposal. We have doing likewise. I think this matter was raised received many representations from local in the 1969 National Party Conference. fishermen. The Minister for Local Govern­ Although this cause was espoused for a long ment and Main Roads said that local fisheries time, the Premier would not agree to it. But were worth about $9,500,000. great change has taken place. On 25 January 1977, this report appeared in "The Courier­ (Time expired.) Mail"- Mr. HARTWIG: (Callide) (4.14 p.m.): I "The Premier vetoed a National Party represent the area involved and I support suggestion that it was time to set up a trade the BiH. This tourist development to be mission in Japan to promote sales. undertaken is unique not only in Queens­ "The Premier said: 'It is about time we land, but in Australia. looked somewhere else, because everyone Mr. Gunn: You fought !hard for it. wants to sell to Japan.' The trade mission proposal for Tokyo was made by the Mr. HARTWIG: I did. National Party State president (Mr. R. I commend the various Ministers and the Sparkes). eight or nine departments that have put such "It is not new and was promised in the effort into drawing up this franchise agree­ National Party platform during the 1969 ment. It is quite complex in itself but is and 1972 elections." designed to give this tremendous tourist After the Premier returned from his Japan­ development protection not only from the ese trip he was reported in the same news­ local people but from the State and the paper of 25 March 1978, as follows- nation. "Queensland would establish an Agent­ Today we hear this rabble that is being General's Office in Japan, the Premier (Mr. established on party lines. One could be Bjelke-Petersen) said yesterday. forgiven for asking why the A.L.P. has adopted such a line of attack. I cannot "He told a Brisbane Airport press con­ help recalling the tremendous encouragement ference after returning from Japan: 'I given to me by the late Martin Hanson. believe that our office in Japan will become He was a man of great foresight. He could more important than the Agent-General's see the tremendous assets, development and Office in Britain-our traditional market.' benefits that a complex such as this one could "Mr. Bjelke-Petersen said Queensland bring to the State and nation. The former was the only State not represented in member for Nudgee and Deputy Leader of Japan. the Opposition (Mr. Jack Melloy) was "He said he would recommend to another great advocate for Iwasaki. Rex Cabinet that the Tokyo office should have Patterson commended the Government on equal status with London." the Iwasaki project. One wonders today at the attitude of the That was a change which no argument in members of the A.L.P., who oppose every­ this Chamber or in the Party room could thing that this Government is trying to do effect. The Premier's attitude changed when for the Aborigines in regard to the mining he returned after having talked with Mr. of bauxite. The honourable member for Iwasaki. Port Curtis represents an area in which We certainly want to see safeguards written the Government and overseas interests have into the proposed agreement so that we will invested a large sum of money. He is not be affected by a similar change in attitude virtually elected upon the money that is as this project develops-or does not develop spent by this State and invested by over­ -on the lines announced to us. seas interests to develop jobs in that area. Then he rises in this Chamber and condemns Both Mr. Iwasaki, Snr., and Mr. Iwasaki, the very assistance that the Government has Jnr., have guaranteed certain things con­ given. He condemns the Iwasaki project. nected with the project. Those guarantees He condemns the Livingstone Shire Council. must be written into the agreement. We Why? It is amazing to me to see the cannot accept assurances, too much is at A.L.P., which is supposed to stand for the stake. We cannot talk widely about the worker, deliberately trying to prejudice the project until we have studied exactly what establishment of this project that will employ is tabled. We will have to study everything thousands of Queenslanders, as Thiess Pea­ closely to see if there are any outs in the body Mitsui does at Moura. From the office proposed legislation so that we may ensure boy to the manager at Moura, Mitsui has Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 609

been represented by Australians. Fancy the spend millions of dollars to bring it into A.L.P., which claims to be the voice and production. Not one hut has been built on the mouthpiece of the worker, knocking that land since Captain Cook sailed along back thousands of jobs. I want the State of the east coast of Australia. Why? Because Queensland to know this. no white person who has ventured into the area has been able to find a dry spot on Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: That is why they which to build. hold none of those seats today. The Government has taken over the Mr. HARTWIG: That is right. I want responsibility for the Livingstone Shire. That Queensland to know the attitude of the action is applauded in my electorate. I A.L.P. in this regard. want to make that point quite clear. I said Mr. K. J. Hooper: How much land do at the outset that I was in favour of the you hold at Yeppoon? Iwasaki project provided it was not an encumbrance upon the ratepayers of the Mr. HARTWIG: The honourable mem­ Livingstone Shire. The Government, by its ber would not have any. He hasn't enough franchise agreement, has protected the rate­ money to-- payers of the people in the shire. It is too big for the Livingstone Shire to handle. The The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honour­ Government has discussed the matter with able member for Archerfield is becoming a representatives of the Livingstone Shire Coun­ little tedious. cil. The chairman, the deputy chairman, the shire clerk and the engineer discussed the Mr. HARTWIG: I want to point out plan with the Premier and the Minister for to the people of Queensland that the A.L.P., Local Government and Main Roads last the great screamer for the worker, is knock­ week, and rightly so. They welcome the ing back this project and trying its damndest opportunity of seeing this development. to do 15,000 or 20,000 people out of their jobs, the same as it destroyed the only I agree with the honourable member for Aborigine we ever had in this Parliament. Port Curtis about the roads. I think it is the first time that I have agreed with him. An Opposition Member interjected. He said, as anybody in local government would know, that the ratepayer is responsible Mr. HARTWIG: The honourable mem­ for 10 per cent of road construction costs. ber is a racist. At a guess I would say that the road What did we see on Anzac Day? The between Rockhampton ·and the resort would Leader of the Opposition brought politics cost ·omething like $10,000,000 to build. Ten into the most revered day in the Australian per cent of $10,000,000 is $1,000,000, which calendar. He said, "Demonstrate against is the amount that the Government has saved Iwasaki on Anzac Day. Appeal to the the ratepayers of this particular area. It R.S.L." He stands condemned in the eyes is one of the worst roads in the area. of his own race. The benefits keep flowing on. What about Mr. Gunn: They asked him to resign. the tradesmen? ·what about the materials? What about the food? On this subject, of Mr. HARTWIG: That is true. The course, I must condemn the action of the Chamber of Commerce, the people at Yep­ Whitlam Government in entering into a con­ poon, asked him to resign. Eddie Casey is tract with overseas countries, including Red ready to jump into his hot seat. Let me China, to import food into this nation. We not be misunderstood. If he does not jump hope that we can get enough people to go in quickly, Keith Wright will beat him to to the resort to make it worthwhile for our the punch. own producers to supply the necessary food. Let us look at this land. I refer to John Thomasson, who holds 5,000 or 6,000 acres. I now want to quote from a letter from I claim I know something about this land. the Chamber of Commerce to the Premier I challenge those honourable members oppo­ of Queensland wherein it is stated- site who have condemned this project to "Mr. Iwasaki has stated publicly he say that they have ever been near it. would be interested in starting a marine They have not been interested enough to research laboratory and hatchery on Fish­ go near it, yet they accept second-hand and ing Creek with the co-operation of the third-hand information given by people local fishing industry and he would eventu­ who have not been there. They have not come ally give this to the industry . . . to see me. They did not seek public "There are no mangroves and only 120 opinion in the area, but they are making acres of fresh water grazing meadow within up a pack of lies. They are guilty of nothing 6 miles of Yeppoon where most of the but lies and innuendoes. As I have said, initial development is planned." John Thomasson's father starved on this land. John Thomasson himself admitted at I certainly think it is a good thing that we a public meeting at Yeppoon the other night do have some control over this, and I cer­ that he went broke there and was glad to tainly support it. I believe that the Govern­ get rid of it. This land is riddled with ants, ment should have control over it. I think flies and mosquitoes. Iwasaki will have to that is very, very good. 61215-20 610 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill

We have to look at the associated ser­ Mr. HARTWIG: Yes. It will stimulate vices. If Mr. Iwasaki wants a water supply, tourism throughout the State, and, whether he will have to negotiate with the Livingstone we like it or not, tourism is our third Shire Council. If the honourable member greatest income-earning industry. How many for Rockhampton were here now, he would times do we hear members of the Opposition bear me out when I say that the rates in say that people are going overseas because the Livingstone Shire are probably higher it is cheaper than touring this State? I than anywhere else and, if we can get believe that this complex will be one of another 500 or 1,000 residents to come to great beauty. live at Yeppoon, they will certainly help those who are there now to pay for the provision Mr. Tenni: Don't you think Mr. Jones of the services. The ratepayers of Yeppoon should support that, because he has been are presently footing the Bill for all the complaining about unemployment in the showers, toilets and other facilities that are Cairns area? needed by holiday-makers. Mr. HARTWIG: Yes. Mr. Warburton: Won't the valuations go up in this area? I was amazed to hear the speech of the honourable member for Port Curtis, because he knows full well that if the Japanese Mr. HARTWIG: They had already gone cease buying our coal his town will die. He up, even before Mr. Iwasaki got there. Of cannot get away from that. course, if we are going to have international tourists, we will need an international air­ Mr. Vaughan: Gladstone is all right; it port. This is the sort of development that is going to have an aluminium smelter. is going to take place. Already the Premier has negotiated with Canberra in this regard. Mr. HARTWIG: That is right; he is Mr. Vaughan: We want an airport in going to get an alumina smelter in Glad­ Brisbane first. stone. He is going to get the lot, and yet he stands up in his place and condemns the Mr. HARTWIG: The honourable member Government. will have to battle with us because we are Then we heard from the honourable mem­ going to try to get one in Central Queens­ ber for Bundaberg, a man whose electors land so that overseas visitors can come in are dependent for their incomes on exporting their thousands to enjoy the hospitality of sugar to Japan. What do the sugar growers the Capricorn Coast. in his electorate think about his condemning the Japanese? How can he go and face Less than 2 per cent of the total area is those people? Let him go to the sugar mangroves, and less than 8 per cent is swamp growers in his area and say that he con­ or freshwater meadow. There are those of demns the Japanese in all their activities. He us who have been fortunate enough to go is the man they elected to represent them, to Japan. The honourable member for to help sell their sugar, and yet he rises in Cairns has visited Mr. Iwasaki's resort and this place and condemns the buyers. Shame he was overawed. Make no mistake about on him! His electors are dependent for their it, he was very impressed. incomes wholly and solely on the Japanese. Mr. JONES: I rise to a point of order. I Then we heard the Leader of the Oppo­ am the next speaker and I will let vou know sition with his lies, innuendoes and insinua­ about that later. I can assure you· that that tions that we see daily in the Press. He did is not so. not have the guts, the decency or the interest to come to Y eppoon, although he The CHAIRMAN: Order! There is no received the same invitation as that extended point of order. to the Minister for Local Government and Main Roads. The Minister had only 24 Mr. HARTWIG: Mr. Iwasaki has said hours' notice, yet he was there. he wants to plant as many as 10,000,000 In the interests of the local people, I trees. He wants to convert this area to a request the Premier to have a map drawn place of beauty. It will be a Mecca for up and exhibited in the Y eppoon Town Hall tourists not only from Australia but from and have a couple of officers there to explain overseas. Mr. Iwasaki has said, "If I cannot to the local people exactly what is taking have Australians in my complex, I might place. I believe it would be in the interests as well forget about it." Isn't that plain of the local people to know and understand enough? what is going on. Mr. K. J. Hooper: Did he say that? Mr. Bjelke-Petersen: I will have that done. Mr. HARTWIG: He said that in reply to Mr. Casey: They should know. a question I asked him. Mr. HARTWIG: They have listened to so Mr. Tenni: Would you agree that it is many lies from the A.L.P. that we have to going to bring a terrific amount of tourism start telling them the truth. to North Queensland as well, right up to the Far North? Mr. Burns: Why don't you tell them? Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 611

Mr. HARTWIG: Well, I rang Andrew Mr. JONES (Cairns) (4.32 p.m.): I have Swanton of "This Day Tonight" and said, been opposed personally and in principle to "Andrew, we are sick of this bloke Burns, the Iwasaki proposal from its inception. My he has never been near the place." He said, stand is on record in "Hansard" as far back "God; don't tell me that." I said, "He's as 25 November 1975, in the debate on the never been to Yeppoon, but I can go on Lands Estimates. television and tell people a little bit about Yeppoon." He said, "Oh, but you're for it. The honourable gentleman who has just We don't want to hear you." We should resumed his seat asked why the A.L.P. has feed people the truth, not insinuations and taken such a line of attack. First I should innuendoes. The people of the area will try to remove the confusion arising from the benefit immeasurably from this develop­ many conflicting statements made by Govern­ ment. Why are the media so opposed to it? ment Ministers and people outside this Cham­ Why does every news comment we hear deal ber over a long period. only with A.L.P. knockers. We have become a nation of knockers, no more and no less. Mr. Porter: Name them. People knock, knock, knock. Since the National-Liberal Government first assumed Mr. JONES: I will name them. The most office in this great State of Queensland, the recent example "as the confusion caused by development has been almost unbelievable; the policy of the Returned Services League yet honourable members opposite are now on foreign ownership of land in Australia. condemning enterprise and the creation of The State President, "Abby" Abbott, who employment. I hope that in the years to I understand is an alderman of the Mackay come people will realise that. City Council, made a statement on the eve of Anzac Day that he supported the Govern­ I commend the Government and the ment and that the R.S.L. was fully behind Premier for introducing the Bill, and I am his statement. Of course, he was forced pleased to agree that it should lie on the to retract that when, naturally, members of table so that the Opposition can study it. the R.S.L. in Queensland quickly brought to his attention the policy of the R.S.L. On Mr. Yewdale: How long do you suggest? Anzac Day the Press reported- A month or two? "Returned Services League president (Mr. F. Skillington) said yesterday R.S.L. IVI.r. HARTWIG: No; a few weeks. When members in Central Queensland were we come back after the recess, A.L.P. mem­ vehemently opposed to selling freehold bers can do what they like. The Govern­ land to any alien." ment is giving the Opposition an opportunity to study the Bill. It is not bulldozing it The report continued- through this Chamber. I hope that the hon­ " 'Alien investment is welcome, but we ourable member for Rockhampton North will do not believe in selling our birthright,' support the introduction of the Bill. If he said." he does not, he will be letting many business people down. He cannot have two bob Of course, he was relying on this resolu­ each way. The Bill is being introduced after tion, which is the policy of the R.S.L. in seven or eight years' discussion. On many Australia- occasions I asked questions in this Chamber "Land ownership by aliens or corpora­ and was knocked down. I did not get tions with foreign control should be sub­ an ounce of support from either side. At ject to the following conditions- times I have wondered why Iwasaki pro­ "Freehold land other than for personal ceeded with this development in Queensland. residence be restricted to a reasonable He could have gone to Victoria, where the living area and occupied-and legislation State Government would have given him the as such be introduced-that Crown lease­ land. He could have gone to Western hold be made available only on Australia. conditions and safeguards as shall be determined by the Government in the Mr. Newbery: Send him to Mackay. interests of the State as a whole; that a Commonwealth register of foreign Mr. HARTWIG: The Leader of the House investment be set up to give immediate said, "Send him to Mackay." I do not know information on the extent of foreign what the honourable member for Mackay involvement in Australia." would think about that. The idea was, The salient point as outlined in the policy "If you don't want him in Y eppoon, send statement is that the R.S.L. believes that him to Mackay. We will have him." foreigners including British, American and I believe that we must give the proposal Japanese and all others should not be allowed a go. It is unique. Mistakes will be made, to own freehold of large tracts of Australian but I hope we will learn from those mis­ land. takes. I hope to see it come to fruition. That should quell the opposition. What It will become a holiday Mecca, a place amazes me is the blatant case of misrepre­ of beauty and something of which Queens­ sentation initially, and also that members of landers, Australians and overseas tourists the R.S.L. who sit in Cabinet were not will be proud. aware of that policy. If they were, they 612 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill did not put it forward at the time. Cer­ agreement will not be met until 1984. Prob­ tainly they have not stood up in this Cham­ ably the Japanese will erect a couple of ber and stated their belief in the policy of gunyahs or huts on the site and see how it the R.S.L. goes from there. On behalf of the people Land tenure is the whole argument that of Queensland, I want to know what guar­ the Committee should be concerned about antees we have got from this honourable at this point. It has not seen the Bill. I gentleman from Japan. We certainly will understand that the Commonwealth Gov­ want to be given some answers before we ernment is in the process of acquiring land give any carte blanche approval to this to establish a naval base in Cairns. I would legislation. hope that somebody on the Government side The Labor Party has been accused of will tell us the area and location of the attacking this proposal. It is our respon­ proposed site for such an installation. As sibility to be critical of and to oppose any­ the member for Cairns, I would like to thing that is not fully explained to the know what has halted these negotiations. people of Queensland or fully understood by My information is that the problem is about them. To use an old expression, some­ land between high-water mark and low­ thing is rotten in the State of Denmark. ":ater mark. I understand that the negotia­ The deal is a shady one, arrived at in the tions have been halted because of this back rooms. We have heard of public ser­ State's insistence that a 40m separation from vants walking out and refusing to handle high-water mark should be granted. What it; we have heard of Iwasaki himself com­ is the State's view in this regard when it is ing to Queensland and handing out beads negotiating with the Commonwealth? How and other little gifts to public servants to does this conflict with the agreement it is entice them to help him; we have heard proposing with an individual Japanese of the Premier telling public servants to do gentleman? What is the State's stand on the Mr. Iwasaki's bidding. Let the Govern­ separation of freehold title from high-water ment charge us with attacking the Japanese. mark? If it is not good enough for the If they come down here trying to take over Australian Defence Forces to own such land, our land, we will be fighting them from and thus have complete waterfront access to the Opposition benches just as we did in it, how can the State Government explain World War 11 as servicemen. its attitude in an agreement with a non­ Government Members interjected. national under which it will give a title right down to the sea? Mr. JONES: I notice that the Govern­ ment members who are making the most Mr. Porter: Who said it was? noise are not wearing R.S.L. badges and that those who are wearing them are remaining Mr. JONES: Who said what? silent. Government members should look Mr. Porter: Who said it was going to give at the Cabinet benches to see how many him a title right down to the sea? returned servicemen are sitting on them. Government members should ask themselves . Mr. JONES: I am saying it. Let the Min­ where they stand on this issue. Ister refute it. He is in the box seat. He knows what the negotiations are. My infor­ The Premier told us that all land pur­ chases ~ave ~Jl:en made in the normal way. mation is very reliable; it comes from the That Simply IS not true. History shows highest source. If the naval authorities can­ that many of the land purchases were not not have absolute waterfront land, why is made in the normal way. We challenge the Japanese honourable gentleman allowed the Premier on that particular aspect. to c~me in here, walk roughshod over every­ one m Queensland and say, "This is what I The Premier also said that Mr. Iwasaki want, and this is what I will get"? The Gov­ is going to give us certain things. He ernment is not being responsible in this is not going to give us one thing. He regard. From the Bill it is obvious that the will establish a colossus, just as he did at Government is bending over backwards to Kagoshima; he will be running the show allow the existence of a situation that has ~nd we will not have any say whateve; never applied previously in this or any other m any benefits that might flow to Queens­ State in Australia. land and Queenslanders. If the venture is a success we might get some small benefit The mere fact of calling the project a as an offshoot. The Premier has told us Queensland international tourist centre is that Mr. Iwasaki is a man of vision. Why a lot of hogwash. I do not believe that it cannot the Queensland Government see the will proceed as an international tourist things that he can see? centre. The Premier can call us wreckers if ~e l~kes. He spent most of his speech I know that Mr. Iwasaki is a great frierid demgratmg members on this side. He was of the Emperor of Japan, and I also know on the defensive straight away. He knows that the Japanese look upon their Emperor that the people of Queensland and Australia as somewhat of a god, but that does not will not accept his proposal. As for the pro­ cut any ice with me. I do not believe in ject's assuring continued growth and devel­ the alienation of any Queensland land. opment and overcoming unemployment­ As for Mr. Iwasaki being a world leader­ that is purely hypothetical. We can see that we heard of some of his leadership in World in the initial stages there will not be one War 11. He showed leadership all right­ iota of development. The conditions of the leadership in his own business interests. Even Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 613 in supplying the Japanese army in World An area of 8 670 ha, or 21,500 acres­ War II he was engaging in profiteering at an area 12:1- miles by 5 miles-adjacent to the expense of the Japanese Government­ Shoalwater Bay, immediately adjacent to the and he will try to do the same thing to greatest defence training ground owned by our Government. the Commonwealth in Australia-- I am one of the few members of this Mr. Gygar: Have you ever been to Shoal­ Parliament who have visited the site of the water Bay? It has an area of thousands of proposed venture. As far as I am con­ acres. cerned, it is nothing but a great take. I certainly will not be going to visit his tourist resort. Mr. JONES: These hotels and motels are to be part of an international tourist centre, As for his being a great conservationist­ but I will go down on record-in history­ what a lot of rubbish! All he does is sell as having a great degree of suspicion about trees to honyemoon couples so that they the Japanese nation. I do not know whether can plant them. Conservationist, my foot! the honourable member has ever been to All he wants to do is establish a tourist Japan, but I have been. I tell the .honour­ resort and keep the lot for himself. Every­ able member that they do not like occidentals. body else will be out. He has the shops, I have spoken to journalists who got off the the hotels and the buses; he has every­ regular tourist beat, as we did. We had thing in his hot little hand. Nobody else people spit in our faces. We could not go can share. He builds a fence around his down to Kobe where the British occupational project and it is his complex-his little forces were ~tationed, or to Nagasaki or island. It will not be a great deal for Hiroshima. The Australian High Com­ Queensland. It may be a great deal for missioner told us that we would not be Mr. Iwasaki, but it certainly will not mean welcome there and he could not guarantee anything for Queensland. It will be for our safety if we went there. This was part Japanese only: it will be Japanese staffed, of a parliamentary delegation led by the for Japanese visitors, and at Japanese profit. late Keith Hooper. I was only a member of the party. Mr. Gygar: Burnsie was whingeing that there weren't going to be any Japanese down Government members here are doing here. exactly what I have seen our Ministers do in Japan. They are great advocates of the R.S.L. when in Australia, but when they go Mr. JONES: The Minister for Welfare to Japan they remove their R.S.L. bad¥es started to tell the story about what happens and suck up to the Japanese to try to entice when we go to Japan and want an Aus­ this sort of development here. I have seen tralian breakfast. He told us about Queens­ it. It cannot be denied. They ea? . talk landers having an Australian breakfast and about hotels, motels, international bmldmgs, speaking English. When a person asks for museums, beach centres, golf courses and an Australian breakfast in Japan he is spoken so on. There is to be a bird sanctuary, too. to in English, but everything is done by the That will be of great assistance to the Japanese. When the Japanese come here why development of Queensland! should they not be served Japanese break­ fasts by Australians? The Australians could I turn now to the lease. This man is to talk to them in Japanese. Mr. Iwasaki be given this whole area for 25 years, after intends to bring down all his own staff and to which he has an option of another 20 years. run the whole show from his point of view. He cannot be tied down to any angle at . all It will be nothing less than a Japanese colony. until 1984. He is being given the. option to !SUbdivide within the lease-wit~ the I am a little sceptical of unconditional approval of Cabinet! The 'Yeakest IJ?Int of guarantees. I know what the Japanese did this Government is the Cabmet. This man with the meat and sugar agreements, much will only have to say, "I want to subdivide." to the detriment of Queenslanders. The If the Cabinet says, "No", next week he agreements that the Government has made will go to see Joh, and Joh will .go back to with this fellow in privacy will not benefit Cabinet and say, "We want him to. s_ub­ Queensland. divide." Iwasaki will be allowed to subd!Vlde. Under the present conditions ~nd th~ curre~t When I took the Premier to task about attitude there will be no Impediment m the storm-damage repairs that Mr. Iwasaki that condition or section of the lease. If is to effect on his property-! was speaking he is not doing too well in the years ahead about cyclone and storm damage-he said, he will say, "We will have to divide up a "Well, the State Government has fixed up little bit of real estate and do some sub­ the groynes on the Gold Coast." But the division. We will provide little beach cot­ beaches improved by those groynes certainly tages. We will have our agents in Japan were not owned by a private entrepreneur. selling them to the Japanese for Japanese The groynes certainly were not built for one occupancy." What we will have is one little person. Of course Mr. Iwasaki should carry Japanese colony. out his own repairs. I do not see that as any great asset in the agreement. Mr. Porter: Is that in the agreement? 614 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill

Mr. JONES: How do I know? I have not Queensland while this Government occupies seen the agreement. Opposition members the Treasury benches. I should have thought are at a distinct disadvantage. It is the that even members opposite with their sus­ Government's fault. We are asked to debate picious minds would have realised that there this matter. All I am doing is saying what could be no truth in a statement that Mr. I suspect. The Government does not table Iwasaki was going to be given a title to a any documents. It does not allow us to see Queensland beach. Let me say it again so the Bill before we debate it. Then you that this time honourable members opposite come out with some remark about whether will understand me: it is the policy of the this is in the agreement. You might know Queensland Government that beaches belong what is in the agreement. I am hazarding to the Queensland people and that beaches a guess. are and must remain public. The CHAIRMAN: Order! Mr. Casey: Twenty-four hours of the day? Mr. JONES: I am speaking through you, Mr. Hewitt. Mr. GREENWOOD: Yes, 24 hours of the day-daylight, starlight, moonlight; any The CHAIRMAN: Thank you. time the honourable member likes to use it. Although honourable members opposite Mr. JONES: I have grave suspicions about have been complaining that they do not what the agreement might or might not know anything about the agreement, that contain. Also I am greatly worried about has not stopped them from talking to the what the Cabinet will allow as an addendum Press. They have been saying that they would to the agreement at a later stage. All I am like to know the facts. Well, I am giving saying is that the Cabinet is guilty of allow­ them the facts, and if they will keep quiet ing a foreign national to acquire large tracts for a moment, they might learn something. of land which are not necessarily for his In Queensland titles stop at high-water initial development. They are being given mark. What does high-water mark mean in to him carte blanche, without collateral. this sense? If a person has a title to high­ They are situated in Central Queensland. water mark, how close to the water does (Time expired.) his land go? We hear the hydrologists and the fishermen talking about high-water Hon. J. W. GREENWOOD (Ashgrove­ springs and high-water neaps. We hear them Minister for Survey and Valuation) (4.53 talking about mean high water and actual p.m.): Like all other members of Cabinet, high water. But under the law, where title I have made it my business to study the pro­ is concerned, high-water mark in a title is posal over several months. I have been to where a surveyor says it is. Under the Yeppoon-not on the Iwasaki land itself, survey regulations, high-water mark is the but close enough to study it and familiarise edge of the usable land. If a person has a myself with it. block of land at Mermaid Beach and he has Recently I spent a day and a half in the a title to high-water mark, what it means is Kagoshima district. I was not able to see that his land goes to somewhere close to all of the parks and tourist centres, but the edge of that frontal sand dune, because I saw a reasonable sample. My conclusion that is the edge of the usable land. His is that the Yeppoon project will be one that title does not go down onto the beach and will vastly improve that part of the coast, down close to where the water comes at and create jobs, employment and prosperity high tide. It comes to the edge of the usable where now there is none. land, and that is the way it has been for the last 70 years. I do not propose to deal with all of the many aspects of this agreement. I do How is this built into the agreement? I propose to deal with one in some depth might add that in other parts of Queensland because the honourable member for Cairns this is applied by implication but it has not indicated, as a matter of fact, that this been spelt out; but in this case, so that agreement gives Mr. Iwasaki the beach to there can be no doubt whatsoever about it low-water mark. His parliamentary leader, now or in 10 years or 15 years' time, it will on a number of occasions in the public be put into this Act of Parliament that the Press over the past few weeks, has said the public is entitled to go along this beach and same thing. The A.L.P. has put it about in is entitled to use this beach. We are not this State, as a matter of fact, that foreigners relying on anything being available there by are getting Queensland beaches. implication. We are not simply relying on the legal interpretation of title as the edge Let us be quite clear. There are many of usable land. Actually a specific clause is parts of the world where developers do get being inserted in the agreement relating to a title to low-water mark. In Honolulu and the beach. in other parts of the United States, there are beach resorts where the title goes down Mr. Casey interjected. to the water and where, no matter how low the low-water mark is, the resort owner owns Mr. Porter: You will have access to the the beach. This has never been so in beach at all times. Is that all you wanted Queensland, and it will never be so in to know? Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 615

Mr. Casey: Is that in the agreement? Mr. GREENWOOD: That is right. Mr. GREENWOOD: I will come to the Mr. Casey: But what does it matter when agreement in a moment. There is one other the tide turns? problem. Although the beach is a wide one, ~here is always the possibility that cyclones The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honourable m the future will cause erosion or increase member has made his point. Will the the dunes. If there is a build up of the Minister please respond? dunes, well and good, because what we will have on this surveyed block of land are Mr. GREENWOOD: I have explained it survey monuments at the edge of the usable clearly and cannot go through the whole land. Those survey monuments will mark point again. What I am saying is that, the high-water mark in the surveying and even if this extreme condition occurs, there title sense and the boundary of the land. If, will only ever be a right of Mr. Iwasaki to on the other hand, there is enroachment by go down to mean high-water springs and the sea and cyclones eat away those sand below that there will be a guaranteed beach. dunes, theoretically in 10 years' time the In other words, we are doing something water could be breaking where the sand­ here-perhaps out of an abundance of dunes had been and where these monuments caution-that has not been done anywhere had been placed. else in the State. We are making sure that the people of Queensland are getting Where then does Mr. Iwasaki's land end? more here than they are getting anywhere Where then is the protection of the Queens­ else in the State. I am not saying it should landers on the beach? I will tell honourable not be so in other parts of the State, but members. At that stage another section in certainly we are making sure it is so in this this agreement will come into play, which particular instance. might be a little bit difficult to understand. It means that if ever there is erosion-an Mr. Casey: In most other parts of the encroachment-we could get the extreme State they have a buffer zone above high­ situation where Mr. Iwasaki's monuments water mark. are at the low-water mark itself. As those monuments mark the edge of his ownership Mr. GREENWOOD: That is just not true. theoretically he would own the beach. Non~ the less, there is a special section in this Mr. Casey: The Beach Protection Auth­ agreement which says that, if that happens, ority demands it. the beach shall be defined as the distance between mean high-water springs and mean Mr. GREENWOOD: The Beach Protection low-water springs, and that means, as it Authority problem is a complicated one in were, that the beach always moves back with itself, and that will be dealt with at a later encroachment, that the public's rights are stage in the debate. All I say to the hon­ always moving fo~ward with encroachment, ourable member here and now is that it and that there will always be a beach for is being dealt with in a way which is much the use of the public of this State and to more advantageous to the people of Queens­ which they are entitled under this specific land than any other system that is operating Act of Parliament. anywhere else in the State. For the last three weeks honourable mem­ Mr. Casey interjected. bers opposite-perhaps I should not tar them Mr. R. J. Gibbs: Can he shift his hotel all with the same brush, but certainly many back? of them-have been stating these untruths about title down below high-water mark as The CHAIRMAN: Order! One of the though they were fact. They have been honourable member's own colleagues is ask­ irresponsible. It must have been obvious to ing a question that I am permitting, but the them that, in the middle of negotiations, the honourable member for Wolston is making Government cannot be expected to go to the so much noise that I cannot hear it, so I public Press and deal with the substance suggest that the Minister proceed. of those negotiations. I hope the facts are being made clear, and when those facts are Mr. GREENWOOD: The honourable made clear before this Assembly today, and member for Mackay is asking a question in the next two weeks when everyone will which goes to the heart of the matter, and have the opportunity to study the Bill, it I would ask him to restate it because it is will become obvious to everybody that this important that everybody understands it. is a worthwhile project. It is a project that will create many jobs for Queenslanders. It is a project under which the beach is going The CHAIRMAN: Order! He will restate to be protected in the circumstances now it briefly. existing and in the various circumstances Mr. Casey: When you reach that point which might arise in the future. It will there where Iwasaki's monuments are out also become obvious to the people of Queens­ to sea, are you going to alter the definition land that once more the A.L.P. Opposition of the beach by stating that the level between has been quite wrong and misleading in the high-water mark and low-water mark is in statements it has made to the public through actual fact the beach? the medium of the Press. 616 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill

Mr. YEWDALE (Rockhampton North) was then Minister for Tourism, made a (5.6 p.m.): I have listened fairly intently to statement that the project was in fact a the debate that has taken place on the intro­ Japanese project and that it was going to be duction of this Bill, and as I represent a developed on the outskirts of Yeppoon. State electorate fairly close to the area, I Then, on 5 October 1977, Mr. Iwasaki and have some knowledge of what has hap­ an entourage arrived in Y eppoon and met pened. the Livingstone Shire Council. So there was a progression of events in and around Yep­ I think that the arguments put forward poon building up to the meeting between by Government members on racism and the the shire council and Iwasaki. remarks they made about the Leader of the Opposition were simply an attempt to When Mr. Iwasaki met the shire council, a cloud the issue. As I see it, there are two statement was handed out, and I think it vital issues: firstly, the ownership of free­ \1 as rather strange. I have a copy of it here, hold land by aliens (in this case Mr. Iwasaki and it was not dated, signed, or localised in and his company); secondly, the manner in any shape or form. I refer now to a comment which the project will finally be commenced made earlier by the Minister for Primary under the terms of the franchise, and the Industries, Mr. Sullivan, on the question of delays by Iwasaki and his group and their cattle being grown or fattened on some of attitudes and actions over many years. the area in which Iwasaki was interested, and I shall quote now from Mr. Iwasaki's I took the trouble to go to the Parlia­ words in this unsigned document. He said- mentary Library early today and ask "There seems to be a definite relation whether I could obtain a copy of the report between trees, foliage, water moisture, and by the then Mr. Barton and the committee animal life." that was set up some years ago-I think all honourable members will recall that-and I Later he said- was advised by the staff of the library that "In the meantime I will proceed to it was not available. A member of the staff develop my recently acquired acreage of got in touch with the Co-ordinator-General's Yeppoon into an intensive cattle ranch office, but for several reasons-! do not know operation which should become an out­ what thev are-he was not able to obtain a standing example of planned cattle ranch copy of ·the document there. I was finally development." advised that the gentleman in charge of the vault in this building was not available, If this Government and Mr. Iwasaki's sup­ but that if he were available and I needed porters are suggesting that he is a generous the document, I should get the permission man and an enterprising man who is coming of the Clerk of the Parliament, and it could in here to develop this project on the land take up to three to fours hours to find it. he has obtained, they will have to accept That is an interesting sidelight on what hap­ his word that he is going to develop it into pens when one is looking for material for a ranch area to breed and fatten cattle. If a debate-material that was tabled and not they don't accept that, his credibility is in printed-on the very important subject that doubt. He has made that statement in writ­ the Committee is now discussing. I finally ing and handed it to the Livingstone Shire obtained a copy from another source and Council. took the trouble to study some of the points that were brought out in that investigation. I would suggest that the cost of this may be fairly high. I have been in most of the I might also say that at the outset of this area. In fact, one of my local friends owned project both my colleague the honourable a property right alongside the Farnborough member for Rockhampton and I, represent­ school, which he sold to Iwasaki. I had the ing electorates adjacent to the area, asked pleasure of helping that friend to develop several questions of Ministers in this Cham­ his property. Although it was bad for stock ber. I recall particularly that my colleague use he eventually did build it up to carry a asked questions of the then Treasurer, Sir reasonable number of stock. I raise that Gordon Chalk, who indicated that he did not know anything about it and could not point in answer to the comment of the give any positive information. In fact, the Minister for Primary Industries. He asked, whole matter was clouded. "Have you seen the land? It won't grow cattle." Mr. Iwasaki obviously intends to As I see it, it might be described as a try to grow cattle there. serial similar to "Blue Hills" or "Peyton Place". It has been going on since 1970, and The pertinent point here-it has been now the Government is bringing forward a raised several times by Opposition speakers franchise agreement. Looking at the Iwasaki -is whether he really needs 20,000 to 25,000 project, one can go back to 1970, when the acres of land. Another pertinent point is gentleman concerned first came onto the that the project he talks about is going to scene through a real estate agent in Y ep­ be built in an area that is leasehold land. poon, whom I know personally, who indi­ That is the information I have. That project, cated that the Iwasaki Sangyo Corporation including the golf course and the bird sanc­ had certain options on land in the Yeppoon tuary, would not require anything like the area. In February 1972, Mr. Herbert, who acreage that the gentleman has acquired. Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 617

In the statement I just referred to, Mr. When Iwasaki first came on the scene Iwasaki t~1ked about the woodchip industry, he indicated that he would not proceed with the pulp mdustry and the paper and plywood the project without the full accord and industry, so it would seem to me that he must support of the people in Yeppoon and area. have some vision of developing projects of He made that statement in headlines. The these types on his land. fact of the matter is that he has not got Another speaker referred to the employ­ that support, and did not get it, and will not ment of workers on the site. I was involved get it. Many elements in the community with my colleagues in the trade union move­ are opposed to the project. I am not going ment in Rockhampton who asked for an to argue the pros and cons of that other interview with Mr. Iwasaki in that city. than to say that not long after he asked for That interview took place. I was not present that guarantee a meeting was held at but I could name the personnel who attended. Yeppoon to talk about the Iwasaki project. They had a discussion with Mr. Iwasaki for Some 500 people attended that meeting. The several hours about the proposed project. meeting was reported in the Press and the They were seriously concerned about how figures are not mine. Those 500 persons the construc~ion was going to take place, were asked to express their view of the who was gomg to be employed, where the project by way of a vote. Of the 500 people materials were coming from and a whole at the meeting, 364 voted for it and 160 host of matters that concern trade unions. voted against it. Those are the published Mr. Iwasaki again broke a promise. He has figures, and I accept them as being valid. made so many promises now that I can't In other words, just over 30 per cent of the count them. He said to those gentlemen, persons who were interested enough to "I will even take you over to Japan and show attend the meeting voted against the pro­ you my properties over there. We'll talk posal. Subsequent statements by the Regional further about the project, but I can assure Promotion Bureau and the local chamber of you my co-operation will be available regard­ commerce indicated that in one instance 0.2 ing the trade union movement at all times." per cent of the local population and in They have not seen him or heard from him another instance 0.8 per cent were opposed since, and that was five years ago. It is no to th~ project. I do not accept those figures good anyone in this Chamber telling me that as bemg accurate. As I said, I accept the the Government or Iwasaki is concerned published figures as being valid. So Mr. about the workers and the conditions that Iwasaki does not have the full approval of will apply to this project, or who will be the people in the area. employed there after it is constructed. The next thing Iwasaki did was turn a somersault and decide that, no matter Mr. Moore: You sound like a wharfie whether he had the support of the people again. or not, he would go ahead. When he heard Mr. YEWDALE: I don't mind sounding of the opposition to the project he said he like a wharfie. I am very proud to have been would construct an airstrip, create a lake one. I was not like the honourable member establish a golf course and a large park: an electrician 'who scabbed on his mates. ' erect a hotel and so forth. He used the words "so forth". I believe that he now Reference has been made to what Iwasaki plans to build a hotel and a tourist centre wants the land for. He says, "Your Aus­ and undertake a couple of other minor tralia is a rare example of undisturbed projects. So it will be a long while before natural beauty which could potentially be the proposal comes to fruition. developed into an outstanding world tourist resort centre." He talks about "undisturbed Mr. Iwasaki talked about the cost as natural beauty", but he is disturbing the amounting to hundreds and hundreds of natural beauty. The area where he wants millions of dollars. He also said-I use his to put his complex is a leasehold area that words-"This project is so immense that fishermen and others are greatly concerned one nation could not support it." It will be about. interesting to see this immense project that one nation alone cannot support. Mr. Gygar: Do you want to make certain that he won't kill any of the sandflies? Mr. Moore: He's talking about tourism from one nation. Mr. YEWDALE: That is an inane remark from an inane person. He has probably Mr. YEWDALE: Is he? I will hand the \been 'bitten by too many sandfiies and it has documents to the honourable member so affected his brain. that he can have a look at them, too. The fact is that there are breeding grounds The Premier did not come onto the scene in that area for crustaceans of many kinds until about October 1972. Eventually Mr. and the fishing industry is concerned about the project. The report from Sir Charles Iwasaki met the Premier and the then Barton expressed vital concern. Let the Minister for Tourism, Mr. Herbert. At that honourable member read that and think stage he said he had doubled the expenditure, about it, and then he may not talk about to $20,000,000, and that the land available sandfiies. to him was 2,300 acres. On 8 October he 618 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill was going to spend $20,000,000 and he had Government was requested to undertake the 2,300 acres. In other words, between 5 and study and on 12 December 1972 the Liv­ 8 October his expenditure dropped from ingstone Shire Council was asked to con­ "hundreds and hundreds of millions" to duct a land-use survey. The Capricorn $20,000,000 and the area had increased to National Park and Widlife Preservation 2,300 acres. He said he had rid himself of Association called for a similar study on the need to get 100 per cent support and had 14 December 1972 and the Capricorn Coast also obtained another 1,200 acres. Mr. Protection Council called for a similar study Iwasaki also talked about the expenditure on 11 January 1973. Lastly, and very per­ of millions of dollars on building up a cattle tinently, the Department of Primary Indus­ industry on his property. tries asked for a habitat reserve in Corio Bay and the tributaries, Water Park Creek Then, however, he put up a wall of silence and Fishing Creek. It is very important and we heard nothing from Iwasaki or any­ that a Government department should ask one associated with him for some time. for a habitat reserve. During the ensuing quiet period people began to get a bit apprehensive. They asked what At the time, this project was being likened was happening to the project. The Govern­ to the Lake Pedder project. It was said ment, of course, knew what was happening. that without an investigation or study the The then Co-ordinator-General, Sir Charles opponents of the project would have no Barton, was conducting an investigation. I information to base arguments on. It felt sorry for those people, such as Sir became obvious that the scandal surround­ Charles Barton, who were given the job of ing the Lake Pedder project was to be carrying out such an investigation. Mr. repeated in the case of the Iwasaki project. Iwasaki kept changing things; he was obtain­ Questions about the Iwasaki project acre­ ing more land, he was altering the project. age were raised again in November 1972 No-one could pin him down. For a con­ when evidence was presented that, at that siderable period he ignored everyone. time, Iwasaki had procured 13,000 acres, not 2,600 or 3,500 acres, of freehold land. At that stage Mr. Iwasaki took to Japan Further investigation revealed that the area with him his real estate agent, to whom I had been extended to 16,314 acres, includ­ have already referred, and talked with him ing very pertinently 7,094 acres of freehold about his future plans. That gentleman land and nine miles of beachfront. The came back to Queensland, but when ques­ arguments about the Iwasaki project centre tioned by the media, the local residents in on the cloud of secrecy, the too many grey Yeppoon, and the chamber of commerce! areas and the sale of freehold land to he remained silent, saying that Mr. Iwasak1 aliens, which is a vital question for the had instructed him to keep his mouth shut. community. So another wall of silence was erected around the proposal. The franchise agreement which will come before us when the debate closes tonight, This whole series of events led to the will lie on the table for a fortnight. That establishment on 23 November 1972 of the Capricorn Coast Protection Council. It was is not long enough. constituted by a number of local people, Mr. Gygar: You've been talking about including pensioners and fishermen, who were deeply concerned. it for six years. How much longer do you want to drag it on for? A Government Member: How many people? Mr. YEWDALE: The honourable member said it has been available for six years. Mr. YEWDALE: I do not know the What a stupid remark! What is he talk­ number of persons on the council, but I ing about? We have not had it six years. am sure that the member for Callide will The fact is that the Bill will lie on the support my remark that the group is a very table for two weeks. I can see no reason volatile one that has involved itself deeply why it cannot lie on the table until the in this proposal. resumption of Parliament after the May break. It is not an unreasonable sugges­ Mr. Porter: It is a local A.L.P. branch, tion to allow the Bill to be distributed to isn't it? interested organisations in the community.

Mr. YEWDALE: I wouldn't know. Could A Government member suggested to the the Minister tell me how many members of Premier today that he should provide maps the League of Rights are also members of and other material to be sent to the area the National Party or the Liberal Party? so that the people who are concerned may know what is going on. The Bill has In November of the same year the Pre­ come before us today and the Government mier stated in the Press that this major expects it to be debated fully in a fort­ development would be subject to an envir­ night, not only by the Opposition, but by onmental impact study. Everyone accepted the community at large, who will have to that, and obviously it had to be done. The study it in detail to make submissions. Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 619

Mr. Bjelke-Petersen: I have already emotional decision on this issue. I am one arranged with the honourable member for of those people who realise that there are Callide about the maps. times when perhaps Government judgment may be wrong, but in this instance I am Mr. YEWDALE: That is all right. I completely and totaily amazed at the attitude accept the statement by the honourable of members of the Opposition, taking into member for Callide. I believe the period account the outline given of the proposed should be extended. I believe the legislation legislation. In all fairness, I regard members should lie on the table until after the May of the Opposition as third-rate comedians. holiday break. I assume that the majority of people would have to work hard to become comedians Mr. Gygar: You have had six years to but, judging by the comments made by those do your homework. Now you want time to gentlemen this afternoon, I am of the firm make up for your laziness. conviction that they are naturals. Mr. YEWDALE: The honourable mem­ I repeat that I have not come to an ber is making alJ sorts of suggestions. A emotional decision. Some three years ago I, little while ago he said that the matter with other honourable members, had the had been before the public for six years. opportunity to visit Japan. It was my inten­ He is talking rot. The franchise agreement tion to make observations and my own asses­ will come before us tonight after the Bill men! of what Mr. Iwasaki had in fact accom­ is printed. plished in his country. I was completely and totaily amazed. In my opinion, the type Mr. Bjelke-Petersen: If you cannot absorb of complex he has constructed there is it in two weeks you should not be here. completely out of this world. It is certainly non-existent in any capital city in Australia. Mr. YEWDALE: It is not that I can­ This is the type of observation made by those not absorb it but I do suggest that the com­ of us on that tour. munity at large has to arrange meetings, put its submissions together and place state­ As a result, I was firmly convinced that ments in the Press. It will need more time we should try to induce a man with not to do that. It has taken eight years for only his capacity but also his financial the project to get to this point. Surely resources to come to Australia and develop another six weeks will not mean much more an area of land (which, judging by the trouble for Iwasaki. He will not get started description of local residents, was almost in a hurry. If his past record continues, valueless) into parklands and to improve it he will not start for a lonl! time and. when to the extent that we assume it will be he does, it will be pretty slow and ponderous, improved. There is a lot of merit in his as his negotiations with the Government have proposal. Having spent three of four days been. viewing the complexes that Mr. Iwasaki had provided in Japan-and they were most suc­ The Government started an environ­ cessful-the members of that delegation mental impact study a few short weeks returned home firmly convinced that we ago, yet Sir Charles Barton's report was should encourage this gentleman to come presented years ago. All the findings on here and develop similar complexes. the questions studied by Sir Charles and his committee have been changed completely Many statements have been made this because Mr. Iwasaki continues to change afternoon about foreign ownership and that his approach. He would not settle down type of thing. It is not many years ago that and do anything positive, and he would not every resident of this country was in some give the Government particulars when it way associated with a foreign country. My asked for them. That cannot be denied. ancestors of course were German. The He ran away to Japan and hid· nobody foundation stock of many of our people could contact him. There was no' response came from numerous other regions through­ from him. He procrastinated, but finalJy the out the world. Premier told the public servants to get off ~heir b~tts to let Mr. Iwasaki get his pro­ Mr. Casey interjected. Ject gomg so that we could get a franchise agreement into the Chamber. Mr. MULLER: I would imagine that the I believe that the questions are valid, that honourable member would possibly be Irish. the document should be available to the community for longer and that the two main These people developed this nation. As a problems concern an alien holding so much result we have a country of which we are freehold land that he does not need for his aiJ justly proud. Had it not been for their project-he claims he will graze cattle coming to Australia and being permitted to there-and the way he has delayed and frus­ acquire ownership of land before they trated the whole question of this project for became citizens of this country, this nation the past seven or eight years. would never have developed. We have heard many bigoted remarks this Mr. MULLER (Fassifern) (5.26 p.m.): I afternoon about the war with which many rise to express my support for the intro­ of us were associated. The honourable mem­ duction of this Bill. I have not come to an ber for Cairns indicated that there were not 620 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill

many R.S.L. badges being displayed on this edgy when he made this comment and we side of the Chamber. Like a number of queried him on it. Through his interpreter, other people in the National Party, I have the message he imparted to us was, "I am been a member of the R.S.L. for over a businessman. There will be tremendous 30 years. We had the experience of being financial involvement in developing this land involved in campaigns against the Germans, which, as you will readily admit, is in an the Italians and other people. We appear not extremely raw state. I believe that I have to bear any ill will against these people, but got to develop this land in a manner that the fact of the matter is that in our own is acceptable to the people of Queensland. country today we have a completely new As a result of this I shall have to open it generation. I can see many members in up. I will need to develop parklands. I will this Chamber today who were not born before need to make it accessible, and this will mean the commencement of the last war. Some of the construction of roads. There will be a them were not born by the cessation of host­ caravan park. At a later stage we will build ilities. Now, under those circumstances I small motels and, when the community ask: why do they adopt this attitude and sug­ demand is there, we will build this type of gest that we should not enter into any type of complex." business venture with the Japanese? I think it is high time that this type of bigotry is I am firmly convinced that over a period forgotten. of years this will happen; but, to suggest that Mr. Iwasaki and the Sangyo group, or It has been said by members on both sides any other business enterprise on this earth, of the Chamber that if we are going to would move into this region and immediately develop this nation of ours we must develop construct a complex of the dimensions that our trade with the South-east Asian countries. will eventually be achieved, would be sheer Why not, then, allow people like Iwasaki folly. If he were to do this as a business to come to Australia and develop something enterprise, the whole thing would be doomed really worthwhile? I can think of no better to failure. I believe we have to proceed way of going about this. quite slowly. Cabinet has now arrived at certain conclusions. After all, it has been Let us examine the problems which hon­ indicated to the Opposition very clearly that ourable members opposite would have us this project has been considered by mem­ believe exist with this project. I might add bers of this Government and Cabinet, per­ that they are problems which exist only in haps in a limited fashion, for almost eight the minds of the honourable members oppos­ years. One could not say that it has been ite and not in the minds of the people of rushed. Finally, certain conclusions were Queensland. Mr. Iwasaki has indicated that reached. A Bill has been prepared and is over a period of years he will be spending being introduced in the Committee today. something like $100,000,000. I presume that that figure does not take account of infla­ I know that honourable members opposite tion. However, because of the huge amount believe that as members of the Opposition involved, I believe there is merit in giving they have certain obligations. They feel that inflation worthwhile consideration. they are obligated to be critical of every submission that the Government puts up. During our visit to Japan, I and some May I respectfully suggest to them that they other members of the Parliament, including want to be very careful in this instance or the late Mr. Marty Hanson, for whom I they will be left carrying the baby and be had the utmost respect, were a little critical made to appear as idiots in the eyes of the of the intentions of or the forces that may community. I say this because I believe that have been motivating Mr. Iwasaki. I quite accurate assessments have been made of readily admit that I was a little concerned at the potential of this project by the local the time; but, after viewing Mr. Iwasaki's people. The Yeppoon Chamber of Com­ project, I remember Mr. Hanson coming to merce-representatives of the business com­ me and saying, "Look, I am firmly con­ munity-made an assessment. They decided vinced that this man Iwasaki is probably almost unaimously that this project would one of the greatest conservationists on earth. be in the best long-term interests of the In many instances he has altered the natural people of Yeppoon and the central coast in type of vegetation but he has not destroyed general. I respect their point of view. the ecology. He has merely proved what nature has the capacity to do." Now, I I was interested to hear the comments of ask: what harm is there in destroying useless the honourable member Rockhampton North, vegetation and replacing it with vegetation who said that 30 per cent of the people who that improves the location? That is what attended a certain meeting were opposed to the proposal. In my experience if a person Mr. Iwasaki proposes to do here. does not find more than 30 per cent of During our discussions with Mr. Iwasaki in people attending any public meeting opposing Japan I found him to be honest in his him, then he is jolly lucky. I would be approach and very businesslike in his man­ envious of any member holding a public ner. What he did say to us then was, "This meeting who found he had the support of type of complex is not likely to be erected 70 per cent of the people who attended. on your land in Queensland for some years Let us not be silly about it. We know per­ to come." Naturally, we became a little fectly well, as do Opposition members, that Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 621 any decision taken by a Government will and support the people of Queensland and have opponents, and this is not likely to Mr. Iwasaki in this project, the better it change. will be for them. After all, they, in com­ mon wiih members of the Government, are Let us go back to the early stages of our concerned about the future development of development. I have previously mentioned this country, and development can take place the situation that existed with the develop­ only by applying the skills of the work-force. ment of Mount Isa Mines. They went broke on numerous occasions from 1925 to 1949, Let us look at what will flow from this but somebody always saw fit to organise a project, Mr. Gunn. The Premier has little additional finance to keep the project indicated that, right from the initial stages, going. This was all done with foreign capital. the minimum number of employees will be Here we have a Japanese, Mr. Iwasaki, who 450. has volunteered to spend $100,000,000 of his own money to establish a project which will Mr. Houston: How will they be made up? be of long-lasting benefit to the people of the central coast of Queensland, and I feel Mr. MULLER: The honourable. member he should be highly commended for it. will have an opportunity to speak later. He Should this project fail, it will be Mr. has never said anything sensible since he Iwasaki's problem and should not concern has been here, so why should he try to waste the people of Australia. I know that people my time now? have asked why Australian people should not do this. Now, I ask honourable mem­ Mr. Houston interjected. bers: why the hell haven't they done it? This land has been on the central coast The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. near Y eppoon since the world was created. Gunn): Order! We have occupied this country for the last 200 years. We have attempted to develop it. Mr. MULLER: The fact is that they will Nobody has ever suggested that this land be employed in establishing the project. From should be developed; but here is a man of then on the maintenance of a facility of this foreign origin who has the financial capacity type will require the applied skills and ser­ and has volunteered to move into this region vices of many thousands of people. That and do something for the people of Aus­ means money. Take the erection of the tralia. initial complex and consider the employment that will be involved in the construction of In the long term it must be beneficial, roads, and so on. There will be a continuous and I commend Mr. Iwasaki for his efforts. supply of materials for the construction of I know that he will have many frustrations, the Iwasaki project, and I should say that and I trust that members of the Government this will benefit people throughout Queens­ will have what it takes to stand up and land. support him when he is in need of help. Without delaying the Committee unduly, I very much fear that, if it is left to the I wish to say that in my electorate I have Opposition to make the determination, the had numerous critics of the project and I project will be completely and totally want to get them right out of my hair. They opposed because of the lobby from members are well off the mark, and I am disappointed of the conservation group, to which honour­ by their attitude. I believe that 85 per able members opposite have responded. If cent of the people in my electorate are that occurs, the project will never get off the united in their support of the project. ground. Mr. Hinze: They are not ail aliens, are Further evidence of public support is to they? be found in the experience of the honourable member for Ca!lide, Mr. Lindsay Hartwig, Mr. MULLER: No, they are not all aliens. who has been very vocal on this subject in the last two to three years. In fact, he That is why I am taking the stand that almost lost patience with the Government for I am at present. The sooner members of this not introducing the legislation two years ago. Assembly are prepared to stand up and He expressed his opinion quite openly and clearly express their support for legislation frankly in the Y eppoon area, which is in that will be beneficial to the people of Central his electorate, and I understand that as a Queensland, and Queenslanders as a whole, not result of that-this can be checked, but I only in the short term but also in the long think it will be found that what I say is term, the better it will be for all concerned. correct-his majority increased by over 10 per cent at the last election. Mr. CASEY (Mackay) (5.45 p.m.): This debate has degenerated into an attempt by Honourable members opposite suggest that the Government to say that it is indeed the there is something wrong with the proposal great creator of all things that happen upon and that they will lose political support if the face of the State of Queensland, and that they get behind it. I say to them as frankly the A.L.P. is the great knocker of everything as I can in this dignified atmosphere that that has ever been put forward and every­ they have backed the wrong pony and that thing that is ever to be put forward. It is a the sooner they straighten out their thinking rather stupid attitude to adopt in a debate 622 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill

on a serious issue. Of course, it has had its Queensland. Queensland families have been light-hearted moments when the konourable forced to sell out to companies because, as member for Fassifern referred to the things the result of the restrictions placed on them, that were bothering his hair. Perhaps he has they were not able to carry on. had so many things bothering his hair over the years that so much scratching has The Minister for Survey and Valuation removed all of it. talked about the problem of erosion and what is going to happen between high water and We have even had the suggestion in this low water. For 20 minutes all he did was debate that the A.L.P. has been knocking give the Committee a dissertation which Italian migrant families and others who came merely told us that when the tide is in there from Germany, Ireland and so many other is no beach, anyhow, so nobody owns it. places to Queensland. Far from it! The That would be a matter of fact. In his intro­ Labor Party has encouraged migration to ductory remarks, the Premier talked about this State. It was born of the people who erosion and what would happen if that migrated to this State and nation. Persons occurred in some of the areas involved in with names common to various foreign the Iwasaki project. We have seen a lot of lands founded this very party. They founded erosion in various other tourist resorts. We it for the very reason that they wanted to have it on some of the Whitsunday Islands make their new homeland a better place. and on Green Island. Those islands are left They saw Australia as a place that was to take care of themselves, and I have no going to be much better for them than the doubt that that is what will happen in this places whence they came. They wanted to area. preserve it for themselves, their children and their children's children. This is exactly why While we are talking about special bene­ the Labor Party today says that it must ficial factors that are to apply to Mr. have a harder look at the Iwasaki agreement. Iwasaki, even though they are not available to other Queenslanders, I point out that the While we are interested in people who want Premier has mentioned that one of the to share our land, to become nationals with specific matters set out in the agreement is us and to live with us-and I instance the the upgrading of the road from Rockhamp­ Italians who have moved onto cane farms ton to Y eppoon. Special road deals will be in North Queensland and so many other done by the State Government to help Mr. areas, men such as the ancestors of the Iwasaki's resort. honourable member for Mt. Isa who moved in and helped to develop this State-we are What about the roads that lead to North most uninterested in agreeing with any Queensland and almost every year cause Government that is determined to give away trouble in times of flood? The Minister for the heritage and birthright of our present Culture, National Parks and Recreation would Australians and those yet to be born. We know of the many roads in the North that believe that this is a land that should be cause problems. Every year he has to ask kept for us and for ours, just as the Japanese people in towns in his area to help motorists say that Japan is their nation and that out­ stranded by floods. Local police have to go siders will not be allowed to go there and to the aid of flood-bound tourists and take secure their property. In the same way, one food to them. Many people who come to cannot go to Indonesia, Malaysia or so many North Queensland to enjoy some of its other countries in the world and acquire lovely tourist areas have to contend with property. Even Great Britain, whence the shocking roads. What does the Government forebears of some honourable members say to them? It says, "If you want to came, now places restrictions on so many of put your car on a train and send it past us. Many persons are not allowed to even the trouble spot, we will charge you a few go into that country, let alone take over quid to transport it for you." When the land and other assets. In exactly the same tourist gets his car off the train, say, at way, Queensland has to be preserved as our Rockhampton or somewhere else further heritage. south, he says to himself, "That's the last Queensland will see of me. The sooner I The real issue in this debate is not so much the agreement and not so much what get out of this State, the better off I will is being set up in the agreement for Mr. be." Away he goes, and another tourist is Iwasaki or Iwasaki Sangyo Co. (Aust.) Pty. lost to Queensland. He goes back to his Ltd., as the deal to which other Australians home in Sydney or Melbourne and knocks and other Queenslanders are not entitled. the tourist industry in Queensland. What about our own existing tourist areas? The Government ought to be ashamed for This will not happen, of course, to Mr. rushing head over heels to do all it possibly Iwasaki's tourists. They will not be flood­ can for the lwasaki group when it is not bound in buses. This Government will prepared to support many of our own tourist ensure that good roads are provided to projects that require assistance. The Premier enable them to get to and from their and the former Minister for Tourism would destination free from trouble at any time well know the barriers that have been of the year. What we want is the same erected by this Government against some deal for Queenslanders. We want to see tourist developers and tourist operators in Queenslanders treated in the same way as Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 623

Mr. Iwasaki and his tourists. No other tour­ Like the honourable member for Cairns ist resort operator in Queensland is able to and a few other fortunate members, I have control by freehold tenure 20 km of beach­ been to Japan. I have seen Mr. Iwasaki's front land. resorts. I studied his operations in the The proposal is clouded in mystery in that Kagoshima area and I have seen his mag­ we do not know whether the resort at Yep­ nificent Ibusuki Kanko Hotel, which many poon will cater for Japanese tourists or honourable members have spoken about for tourists from the southern States of Aus­ today. There can be no question that it is tralia. If it is to cater for overseas tourists, a great tourist resort in Japan-built and no doubt they will take advantage of the suitably stylised for the Japanese in their package deal. The Japanese are masters at own area and environment. I saw his con­ selling package tours. They sell a complete servation antics. He sells honeymoon couples package tour, which is paid for in Japan a tree. They take it away and plant it on before the tourist leaves. The money goes his golf course, which is on the side of an into Japanese banks in Japan. The only extinct volcano that killed the trees many money that a Japanese tourist would spend years ago. We must appreciate the deep overseas, for example, in Queensland at cunning in this; we have to understand Yeppoon, would be on food that he devours Japanese thinking. Trees are very significant while he is here. He eats a special type of in Japanese religious observance. Sometimes food. The Minister for Local Government Japanese sit for hours studying a small tree. and Main Roads would not last very long in Japanese honeymooners who plant a tree Japan; he must have his good old piece of often come back to his resort in five years' Australian beef to chew. time and pay a further 100,000 yen for a few days at his resort in order to sit down Mr. Hinze: I ate raw fish for a while. and contemplate their trees. Mr. CASEY: Yes, but he cannot exist Mr. Hinze: What's wrong with '!hat? on raw fish for ever. As a matter of fact he looks very much like a whale as it is. Mr. CASEY: I suppose there's nothing The Japanese have a specialised diet, so wrong with that. It is a smart business if they were to come to Australia special operation. But the Government should not food would have to be imported for them. try to sell us the idea that Mr. Iwasaki is On the other hand, if the resort is being doing things because he is a great conserva­ established to cater for Australian tourists, tionist. No-one should tell us that he wants that is more to the shame of this Govern­ to grow trees because he admires their beauty ment. It will be setting up a foreign and wants this area near Yeppoon to be a operator in competition with Queensland wonderful place. No-one can tell us that tourist resorts. he wants to turn it into a wonderful park for everyone to enjoy or that he wants to Today the Premier praised Japan and give Yeppoon a business boost and help all spoke of the Japanese as being wonderful the people in the area. Government mem­ people. He told us how good they have been bers should not kid themselves. He is not for our economy and how great it is that doing anything to help us. He is out to we have this co-operation between Australia make a quid for himself. That is his only and Japan. What a far cry that is from his interest in the Yeppoon project. comments as reported in "The Sunday Mail" of 27 February 1977, when he said- Mr. Greenwood: Are you against ,that? "I am determined to break the barrier of our dependence on Japan. Mr. CASEY: I am again&t his 'being given "I will not have our primary producers special concessions that are not avaibble rto down on their hands and knees trying to Queenslanders or Australians. sell to Japan." If the Government was intent on creating Mr. Jones: Who said that? a major tourist resort at Yeppoon, it could have called world-wide tenders. Did it call Mr. CASEY: The Premier said that, such tenders and ask people to make sub­ only 12 months ago. What a far cry that is missions and submit plans? Are we getting from his remarks today. the best deal in this instance? The Minister At that time the people in favour with for Local Government and Main Roads said the Premier were the Arabian sheikhs. He that he thought we were, as did the Minister was going to sell all sorts of things to them. for Survey and Valuation. But surely there He visited Saudi Arabia and Iran and when must be others in the world who could do he returned he told us what a great thing better. There are other developments in it would be for us in Queensland, that in Australia which are better. I have been to no time at all the Arabs would be moving lbusuki and Kagoshima, but there are resort into the State and money would be flowing areas in Australia which are better. Some like oil from their wells. That, of course, resorts in Queensland would be much better has not eventuated; nor have the sales of than the Japanese resorts if Government beef, sugar and other primary products to restrictions were lifted. Over the years they Iran. This is quite apparent from answers have prevented development. If the Govern­ to questions that I asked in recent days. ment gave more support and assistance to 624 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill

resorts on the Barrier Reef islands, they infested by sea stingers. As a Brisbaneite, would become far better holiday resorts than he would not know a great deal about that any in Japan. problem which we have in the northern areas. We have been told of special deals and One of the reasons Iwasaki has gone to wonderful opportunities available to us in that area is that he cannot get anywhere else Japan. On our part we have not placed any in Queensland that is reasonably close to the restrictions on the sale of coal or iron ore southern populated areas. to Japan. We have been told what wonderful, great people, the Japanese are, but do they We could talk about quite a number of sanction unrestricted purchases of our meat the conditions of this agreement. For and beef? Most certainly not! The worst instance, employment figures have been restrictions and trade barriers confronting quoted today. Over a period of months the export of Queensland primary products, leading up to today, thousands of Queens­ which are vital to our economy, are imposed landers have been mentioned. The honourable by the Japanese. member for Callide spoke today about thous­ ands of Queenslanders. According to the [Sitting suspended from 6 to 7.15 p.m.] Premier, some 420 will be the maximum that he is looking at at this stage. So it will Mr. CASEY: We must be practical about not be the great bonanza that it has been Mr. Iwasaki, his proposals and what he wants made out to be at various times. to do, as well as recognise that, although he wanted to come to Queensland, he did Many other things are involved. It has not intend to establish at the Gold Coast or been said by an honourable member that the near north coast in competition with the no-one would make a cattle property out numerous traders and establishments that are of this land. But it would make an excellent already there. He wanted to have some­ cattle-fattening property. It is handy to thing all on his own. He could not get the grain-growing areas of Central Queens­ hold of Cooloola. Certainly it would have land and could be used for cattle-fattening. been dangerous for him to even try, after In the long term, this is one of the things the big row that there has been over Cooloola. that the Japanese are looking for. They So he had to come up as far as Central are particularly keen on lot fed beef. This Queensland to get a location close to a is a highly specialised trade. I suspect that populous area and the best stretch of part of this move has been associated with undeveloped beach between the area south of the Premier's past comments on the need for Gladstone and Sarina Beach. the live cattle trade with Japan. Mr. Greenwood: Have you been there? We are talking about agreements with Japan and about the Japanese. I well recall, as do the people in my area to their suffer­ Mr. CASEY: I have been there. I was ing, the way in which the Japanese welshed there before the Minister came into this on the long-term sugar agreement that they Parliament, when he was still accepting briefs entered into. It was signed and sealed by for the State Government. I was there the Commonwealth Government on behalf of when he was still at the Inns of Court. I the people of Australia. It was agreed to by have been onto the area. I have been the Queensland Government and the Queens­ around the land. I have flown over the land sugar industry. It was agreed to by area quite regularly. In fact, I had another the Japanese sugar refiners. good view of it this morning when I was flying down to attend Parliament. I know the land very well indeed. Mr. GREENWOOD: I rise to a point of order. These remarks are not relevant. Mr. Iwasaki had to go as far north as that before he could get the first major The CHAIRMAN: Order! I am not con­ stretch of beach sheltered by the Great vinced that they are relevant and I am wait­ Barrier Reef. This means a lot to resorts. ing for the honourable member for Mackay Any erosion there is not as serious as that to tie them to the Bill. experienced on the Gold Coast or the north coast. The only erosion problems there are Mr. CASEY: The point I am making associated with cyclonic disturbances. There is that we are discussing an agreement that is a major area of ocean between the shore will supposedly be to the great betterment and the Swain Reefs, but it is not as of the people of Queensland. The tie-up affected by cyclones as is the area farther is that despite an agreement being entered north from St. Lawrence to Mackay. Surf into with certain Japanese business interests means nothing to the Japanese. They have by the Parliament of this nation and by the no surf in their own country or at least in Government of this State, the Japanese the areas where Mr. Iwasaki has established welshed on it. There is no guarantee that his resorts. Surf does not make a great they will not welsh on this one. deal of difference at all. If the Minister is trying to intimate that Mr. GREENWOOD: I rise to a point of people will go there because of the surf an.d order. There is no reason to suppose that, the opportunity to swim in the sea, he IS because particular Japanese welshed on on~ completely wrong. In the summer months particular agreement, therefore the Iwasaki the whole of that part of the coast can be people are welshers. Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 625

The CHAIRMAN: Order! There is no I heard other members criticise the tem­ point of order. porary Leader of the Opposition and suggest that he is a racist. Of course, I do not believe Mr. CASEY: The Minister for Survey and that that is so, but the performance of the Valuation comes out of his little cocoon temporary Leader of the Opposition in this now and again when he has a brief. I do Assembly was another of his exercises in pure not know whether it is a brief on behalf of political opportunism. I thought he would be Cabinet or on behalf of some other interest, sitting there in the front benches tonight but none the less he comes out of his little and if he was so concerned he would be cocoon and makes these ridiculous state­ there, but he is not. ments. The fact is that the Japanese welshed on the sugar agreement. \Ve are concerned Honourable Members interjected. also about other agreements that we may have to enter into with them in the future. The CHAIRMAN: Order! As I said earlier, I have visited tourist Mr. LANE: He made an assessment of the resorts owned by the Iwasaki company. I political mood of this country-- have also visited the war cemeteries through­ out South-east Asia where so many of our Mr. Casey interjected. war dead lie. We all know of the famous The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honourable agreement that the Japanese entered into member for Mackay will cease these con­ with the United States of America and then stant interjections or I will deal with him broke on that infamous day at Pearl Har­ under Standing Orders. bour. It is without doubt the most infamous agreement that has even been entered into Mr. LANE: He made a political assess­ in the historv of the world. Let us not kid ment of the mood of this nation that there ourselves. The Japanese have broken agree­ is still racial prejudice in the community ments before, and they broke one as recently against the people who live in Japan and as last vear in relation to the long-term against the people who live in Italy and Ger­ sugar agreement. many. He has decided to trade off that, to (Time expired.) play up those things for the political benefit of his miserable party, ably assisted by the Mr. LANE (Merthyr) (7.21 p.m.): I can­ honourable member for Cairns, who put not understand the honourable member for up such a disgusting performance here today. Mackay having the gall to stand in this He represents an area where there are many Chamber and talk about broken agreements sugar-cane farms owned by Italians, many when he himself has left behind him a of whom are my friends, who are not nat­ string of unpaid debts and unfulfilled agree­ uralised Australian citizens, who still hold ments in business circles. their Italian nationality and who hold mil­ Honourable Members interjected. lions of dollars worth of land in North Queensland. When he gets up here and con­ The CHAIRMAN: Order! demns Mr. Iwasaki, he heaps the same con­ demnation on his Italian constituents in the Mr. LANE: This is something even more north, just as he does on German tobacco serious. farmers and people of other nationalities, Honourable Members interjected. who just haven't got round to naturalisation yet. However, that is all right. They live The CHAIRMAN: Order! well with us and they live well amongst us. Yet we hear this disgusting prejudice Mr. LANE: I refer to the performance of expressed towards the men from the East. this disgusting little man who represents the city of Cairns, one of the great tourist Mr. R. J. Gibbs: You'd support the Fas­ cities in North Queensland. cists. Honourable Members interjected. Mr. LANE: Here we go; now every Italian in this State is a Fascist. That is a lovely The CHAIRMAN: Order! statement from the honourable member for Wolston. We will have it recorded in "Han­ Mr. LANE: I have never seen a more sard" that every Italian in this State is a revolting performance on the floor of this Fascist. Chamber than that of the honourable mem­ ber for Cairns before the dinner recess. An Opposition Member: He didn't say I want to dissociate myself from his that. performance, and I am sure every member in this House will want to join me in that. Mr. LANE: That is what he said. We will let every Italian throughout Queensland Honourable Members interjected. know what the honourable member said. One wonders what would happen if it were some The CHAIRMAN: Order! people from Red China who wanted to come here and develop a similar complex. We Mr. LANE: His narrow-minded, bigoted have diplomatic relations with the Red Chin­ and prejudicial remarks were absolutely dis­ ese and perhaps they would be welcome if gusting and he should be ashamed of him­ they came here in a spirit of goodwill. We self. would see the boys of the same tint and 626 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill plumage on the other side of the Chamber seen the great national parks he has devel­ rise and support them coming here, but oped at his own expense for the public to because a private-enterprise man is coming walk through, the railroads, the transport here, they condemn him. Of course, in doing systems, the hydrofoils and the vehicular so they are inconsistent with the Australian ferries of southern Japan. They have seen Labor Party's Federal platform as decided the glorious hotels that have been developed at the 31st national conference at Terrigal there, which could not be anything but an in 1975. improvement on the flea-bitten swamp at Yeppoon that we are talking about. Mr. R. J. Gibbs: Here we go. Members from both sides of this Chamber have been to look at these complexes. I Mr. LANE: Yes, here we go. Under the well remember going there in 1975 with the heading "Foreign Affairs" the first general former member for Port Curtis, Marty principle itemised is- Hanson. He spoke in glowing terms of "The Labor Party, as a democratic, what Mr. Iwasaki had done in that area. socialist and internationalist Party . . ." If he were here today he would be on his feet, as the only courageous Labor man who How about living up to that, fellows? Hon­ has sat in this Chamber in the last five ourable members opposite want a state of years, supporting this proposal. He would political opportunism in Queensland. The not be engaging in the cheap political oppor­ platform continues- tunism that is engaged in by other members " ... believes that every nation must share of the Opposition. in the skills of mankind and resources of the world according to its needs and must Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt interjected. contribute to those skills and resources according to its capacity." Mr. LANE: That is right. I brought some folders and brochures back from Japan which Mr. Iwasaki has a capacity to contribute I will table. I would not expect the closed towards the development of this country and minds opposite, the men of prejudice, the to assist in developing this country. men of bigotry, the men of racism, to even bother looking at them. I will table them Mr. Scott: Have you been on holiday in so that members can look at them and see Japan? the wonderful hotels there, 12 and 14 storeys high, surrounded by national parks create~ Mr. LANE: I will get to that. The by the man who built the hotels, Mr. Iwasak1. honourable member should not worry about that; there is plenty of time. If we like to Of course, in these areas the complexes read a little further down in the platform were built by the indigenous population of this scurrilous Labor Party under the head­ around them, just as they will be built by ing of "Discrimination" it says- Australians in Central Queensland. "Labor opposes any form of segregation An Opposition Member interjected. or discrimination on the grounds of colour, race, sex, creed or politics and will insist Mr. LANE: Some honourable mempers on ending every form of such discrimina­ opposite claim expertise in the field of indus­ tion within Australia and in Australian trial relations. They would know that for administered territories. It supports action, any work carried out in that area, the including sanctions, through the United employment conditions would be subject to Nations to end such segregation or dis­ the Industrial Conciliation and Arbitration crimination." Act and the awards under which people Now, we know that the people at the work in this State. Of course that is Federal conference who wrote this document correct. intended the discrimination to be against their enemies but in favour of their friends. All Mr. Yewdale interjected. those who know the nature of the Labor Mr. LANE: When the honourable mem­ Party understand that, but I do not know ber for the Rockhampton waterfront sends about those men opposite, including the his wharfies up there to demand their tri­ Deputy Leader of the Opposition. He bute and their blackmail when Mr. Iwasaki attended that conference at Terrigal and he puts a jetty in, they will be paid under was there when those decisions were made. the terms of the award. He can guarantee I suspect he even voted for those propositions, that. and yet he sits over there looking as he does. Even today the Leader of the Labor Mr. Yewdale interjected. Party in this State is still a member of the Federal conference, and what has he got Mr. LANE: The wharfies will be safe; to say about those things? don't worry about it. Now, let us talk about Mr. Iwasaki's devel­ When the honourable member for Nudgee opments in Japan. Many members have had is kicked out at the next election and goes the opportunity-in fact they have gone out back to fixing light switches, he will be up of their way-to visit Kagoshima and Ibusuki there looking for a job because it will be in southern Japan and have a look at Mr. one of the few developments of any mag­ Iwasaki's development there. They have nitude that will be taking place. Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 627

One must look to the benefits of this place party, is revealed today for what it is­ to Australians, Mr. Hewitt, and that is the the most reactionary party in Australian first consideration. In the case of any politics, the Australian Labor Party. The foreign investment, we must look first to A.L.P. was founded on class-war prejudice; our own hide and our own benefit. It it is displaying racial prejudice in this Par­ is obvious that it would be impossible for liament in 1978. It is an absolutely dis­ a $50,000,000 development to be created gusting state of affairs. there with materials all brought in by Of course, we now have a uniform mysterious means from some other place, building code in this State. It will ensure that materials that were not created in Australia. the buildings constructed on the project are Of course they will be created in Australia­ to a national standard. There will be nothing at the brickworks, down on the industrial shoddy about them. They will be built with estate at Hamilton where aluminium win­ Australian materials, materials produced in dows are made, and in many other places. our factories and workshops. This will pro­ Small businessmen in this country will bene­ vide employment for workers and oppor­ fit because they will be supplying the mat­ erials and services and all the wherewithal tunities for small businessmen. Materials will for the construction of the project. With be carted up there on trucks driven by any sort of luck, men who own trucks and members of the Transport Workers' Union. earth-moving equipment-men who are still The honourable member for Brisbane Central solvent and in business, unlike the honour­ ought to be applauding the Bill. Old Sweat­ able member for Mackay, who does not rag Wilson should be happy about it, too. pay his debts-will be up there moving the His mates in the railways up North, the earth and helping to build the great train drivers, will be carting materials, too. buildings. Many people will be provided with employ­ ment and other opportunities as a result of The CHAIRMAN: Order! There is too this project. much audible conservation in the Chamber. I have had an opportunity to study the provisions of the Bill. I find them quite . Mr. LANE: Of course, it will be paid for, agreeable. There is nothing in the Bill that hke a number of other projects in this is inconsistent with the policy of encouraging country, by proper overseas investment. We private enterprise to develop this great State. are entitled to look at just how that money If the Opposition had its way there would will come into the country and ensure that be no coal-mines in Queensland. The Bowen the usual protections are laid down in that Basin would not have been developed and respect, too. As honourable members are coal would not be being mined in that a\'l,,are, n.nco c~nnot bring J.llViH;;;y into district. I saw a paper w·ritten by the Australia for a development of this mag­ Honourable Kevin Cairns, one of the State's nitude unless one has the approval of the leading economists a year or two ago, in Reserve Bank. Mr. Iwasaki has had to get which he pointed out that 30,000 people that, and he will need it in future, too. indirectly receive their income from the The Reserve Bank will want to know that Bowen coal basin, not just the few hundred the money which is brought in here will or couple of thousand employed on the site. not have a detrimental effect on the Austra­ 30,000 Queenslanders get their income lian economy, that it will not provide an indirectly from the Bowen Basin. They make imbalance that will throw the economy of catches for windows; they make furniture; !>-mtralia out of kilter. That is why there they supply vegetables for the table; they Is a Reserve Bank and controls laid down supply fruit to feed kids and they even by the Federal Parliament. supply milk from the dairy farms. The CHAIRMAN: Order! There is too Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: No Hay Point, no much audible conservation on my left. Gladstone.

Mr. LANE: There is no reason why the Mr. LANE: No Hay Point, no Glad­ controls will not apply in this case. Of stone-none of that sort of thing if the course they will apply, just as the relevant Australian Labor Party had its way. industrial legislation will apply and the I see that the Government Whip is Liquor Act will apply. indicating to me that he is satisfied with my . guite a lot has ~en said about the pro­ contribution here tonight, so I will sit down VISIOn of hotel servtces, and so on, in this after registering for the last time my com­ resort. Of course the Liquor Act applies. plete disgust and disapproval at the racism, We are talking about a part of Queensland. bigotry and prejudice demonstrated by those No-one is going to cut it off down to the disgusting members who sit opposite in this centre of the earth and float it out to sea. place and pretend to be an alternative It is not taken away; it is still part of Government of Queensland. Queensland. The Liquor Act and all its Whereupon the honourable member laid provisions will still apply to this place, and on the table the pamphlets and brochures the provisions are very progressive and of referred to. a very high standard in this State. So the miserable party that sits on the Mr. D'AllCY (Woodridge) (7.38 p.m.): benches opposite and tries to pretend that The speech we have just heard from the it is a progressive party, an enlightened honourable member for Merthyr-- 628 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill

Mr. Scott: It wasn't a speech. "A hotel of international standard is contemplated and in all this scheme if Mr. D'ARCY: By referring to it as a proceeded with may ultimately involve speech, I gave him a great deal of credit an estimated expenditure of for his poor contribution. Not long ago he £10,000,000., gave evidence before the Criminal Law Inquiry about the evils of police verballing. Mr. Blake: Do you think the honourable From a speech like that tonight, it is apparent member is following in dad's footsteps? that as a former policemen he continues the practice in Parliament. He forgets to men­ Mr. D'ARCY: I think he must be, tion that as a detective in the Valley he once because he supported this Bill. took a written statement from a man in connection with an offensive language Mr. Blake: What happened to all that? charge, only to find later that the man was deaf and dumb. Mr. D'ARCY: I have often visited South Stradbroke Island and the only "international The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honourable hotel" that I have noticed there is a small member will come back to the Bill. tavern on land that the Government gave away as Crown lease. It is doing the same Mr. D'ARCY: So much for his verballing. thing in this instance. On that occasion the Government charged a peppercorn rental, The CHAIRMAN: Order! I am waiting just as it is doing in this instance. So what for the honourable member to address him­ has happened in the past is relevant. self to the Bill. The Government's record is a poor one, particularly in conservation. The Govern­ Mr. D' ARCY: The honourable member ment has heard me, as a former member for for Merthyr also talked about the right-to­ Albert, protest about its wrecking of the work legislation. I am wondering whether it environment in South-east Queensland, par­ will be instituted by Mr. Iwasaki for his own ticularly on Crown leases in mangrove areas. good. A similar situation exists in connection with The Bill must be opposed by the Oppo­ a lot of the land embodied in the Iwasaki sition. One of the major reasons is that we project. do not know fully what the Government The Australian Littoral Society and the proposes. Obviously we have not seen a Conservation Council of Queensland claim copy of the Bill, but we have read a great a large section of the area embodied in the deal about it in the Press recently. We have proposal includes some of the best prawn­ had terrible experiences with this Govern­ breeding grounds in Queensland. They con­ ment in the past. That is the most relevant clude that these grounds are of immense thing we must look at. We have a problem importance to commercial fishermen on the with this Government in Queensland. We Capricorn Coast, as is the Corio Bay area, know its past record; we know its record of which is famed as the best-known nursery alienation of land, particularly Crown land. for banana prawns on the east coast of I was particularly interested to hear the Australia. These areas are being used for contribution made by the honourable mem­ recreation purposes to a greater extent than ber for Fassifern. He does not make very before. many contributions to debates. I would In this debate honourable members have remind him of a very important Bill that was referred to the land in the proposal as a introduced some years ago by his father. In mosquito and sand-fly-ridden area. That is 1959 the honourable member's father was a the type of contribution that we hear often Minister of the Crown, and he introduced a from Government members. They display Bill known as the Crown Land Development their ignorance on conservation matters. Bill. Their show of ignorance is to be deplored. I am certainly disgusted at the attitude In his introductory speech he said- adopted by Government members, partic­ "I would mention just a few schemes ularly those in the Liberal Party. We have that are proceeding at various stages to come to expect such things from the mem­ illustrate the magnitude of the work bers of the National Party; we have seen involved and the type of proposals the what they did to Crown lands in the past. Bill is designed to authorise- However, I expected a better contribution "(a) Negotiations are proceeding with from members of the Liberal Party. the Hooker Rex Coy. Ltd., who propose It may not be known to the Liberal to develop South Stradbroke Island into Party, but it is widely known in election a tourist resort up to international stan­ campaign circles, that during the recent dard. Reclamation, filling, levelling and election campaign the National Party's cof­ stabilisation of sand dunes has to be fers benefited to the extent of Y50,000,000 undertaken, not to mention road and from Iwasaki. canal construction. To provide access to the island the company proposes to Mr. Casey: 50,000,000? build a bridge over the Broadwater which bridge alone is estimated to cost Mr. D'ARCY: Yes, Y50,000,000, which is £750,000. quite a considerable amount. Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 629

As usual, the Liberals have been confused lease. The Government has a record of by the glitter of huge hotels and huge pro­ alienating Crown land. It may introduce jections that might benefit the State. If a Bill in which everything looks rosy; but they had done their job over the past decade its administration of Crown land where pro­ the tourist industry would not be in its tection of the environment is essential has present sorry state. The two new members been very poor. The lessees of thousands of representing the Gold Coast area have been acres in south-east Queensland leased for espousing the tourist industry for ages, but peppercorn rentals are not fulfilling lease the tourist industry in Queensland has never conditions set by the Government. been at a lower ebb, thanks to the attitude of the National Party in Queensland. Gov­ In the first place, the leases we are dis­ ernment members talk about this project cussing should not have been granted. A as a huge complex and quote airy-fairy term of five, 10 or 15 years may pass figures on employment. They must be talking without a developer fulfilling lease condi­ about 100 years hence. Even then, there is tions and without the Government enforcing a big "perhaps". them. In one way I am pleased about that; otherwise there could be total destruction This measure is bad, in that it is alienat­ of mangroves and the prolific fish-breeding ing Crown land with tremendous potential areas in the Broadwater and numerous as a conservation area. Even worse is the estuaries of Queensland. When Government fact that this action is being taken for an members talk about fly-blown swamps and alien. The charge of racism is a red herring. mucking in the mangroves, it becomes We heard the Minister for Local Government obvious that this Bill will not give the neces­ and Main Roads say that his grandfather was sary protection. a German, but the honourable gentleman is an Australian-unfortunate though that may The Director of the Fisheries Services be. The point is that we are Australians (Mr. Harrison) for so many years told the and Queenslanders, and as Queenslanders we Government the value of an acre of man­ should be very concerned about the aliena­ groves in Australia today. That value has tion of Crown land. That is a very relevant been verified by experts throughout the consideration which the people of Queens­ world. The Bill will obviously allow those land are currently talking about. areas to be totally destroyed. Our children I know that the Liberal and National and future generations will not be able to parties have ceased listening to the electors see some of the benefits of mangrove areas of Queensland and what they are concerned that we have seen. That will result from about, but the electors are concerned about this Government's alienation of lands that the alienation of Crown land under this belong to the people of Queensland. It has measure. We have not been given sufficient been allowed to destroy the natural fish information about what is intended. habitats in Queensland. This is a very Although the Government has been asked relevant conservation point. The Government repeatedly to delay the measure to allow has shown that it has an unenviable record the people of Queensland to study it care­ in protection. fully, it has refused to do so. How can anyone expect protection when a I believe ulterior motives lie behind the man such as Iwasaki can obviously organise way in which the Bill was forced upon us. this Bill through Cabinet or, should I say, Introducing the Bill, the Premier spent most a few select members of Cabinet? I happen of his time answering interjections and fob­ to walk with my wife at night doing a little bing off Opposition members by abusing shopping. When suddenly a few ministerial them in his usual style. It was only in the drivers wander past, we say, "What are you last few minutes that he got on to what doing?" They say, "We have the Premier, might be in the Bill. Some of those matters Mr. Camm and a couple of other Ministers are very worrying to the Opposition. Refer­ and they are having a private dinner with ence has been made to the use of this land Mr. Iwasaki." This did not happen just by Australians. The area is used by fisher­ once. It happened continually throughout men and other people. The Government's the negotiations, which were kept terribly past record in this area-- secret-secret from the Liberal Party particu­ larly and secret from some of their Cabinet An Honourable Member: It stinks. colleagues. Mr. D'ARCY: It stinks. I am glad that I am surprised that the members from the somebody on the Government side said that. Gold Coast area, particularly the Liberals, do not realise that there is in the area a The Minister for Survey and Valuation very strong anti-Iwasaki campaign. The referred to high and low-water mark, but "Gold Coast Bulletin" today reports that a the Government's record in Crown leases chap is organising a protest in that area and is pretty grim. When I lived in the South­ that hundreds of phone calls are being port area people could use the inner area of received. the Broadwater for ski-ing, barbecues and Sunday entertainment, but suddenly walls Mr. Hinze interjected. and fences were put up on Crown land leases. Keith Williams, for instance, sud­ Mr. D'ARCY: The Minister wiU not even denly got commercial ski leases whereas hold his seat the next time, so he need not formerly he held the land under an ordinary worry. He is one of the greatest destroyers 630 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill of the environment in South-east Queens­ poor soils that he has worked on over there. land. It is no wonder he has been up there An analogy might be seen with the area at in Yeppoon helping Iwasaki. Yeppoon when we see what the development The Opposition, in opposing this Bill, is will bring there. Some would say that those looking at the relevant points. We are not soils could do with similar improvement. satisfied with the Government's record in The thing that really concerns me about conservation. It has a very poor record. the Labor Party is the racist thing. It is Conservation is a very important part of a really damaging and shocking attitude. In this project. We are not satisfied with the a world where we have had wars and we now alienation of Queensland land. We do not have tension, international understanding is believe that the people in Queensland should terribly important. The Labor Party is now be subjected to a Bill which embodies secret trying to inflame the feelings of ethnic negotiations. What the people of Queens­ groups. It is in fact trying to tear down land are most concerned about is the fact something which will do a lot for inter­ that so much land is being allowed to be national understanding, and that is travel and alienated by Iwasaki. It is quite obvious that tourism. In Queensland we have accepted land has been allowed to be freeholded and the development that has already taken place. subdivided. This has been allowed under Mount Isa Mines is an example of a various Acts. It has been sold off in sub­ foreign company investing capital in this division. country. We can look at the exploitation The debate put forward by the Liberals of our raw materials and resources by the has been sheer bluff. They are like natives British. That is apparently acceptable to the looking at the glitter of a big hotel. The Labor Party, so where in fact is Labor Liberals have been bluffed and conned again falling down? It appears to be the language by the Premier. This morning we talked thing. It seems to be that, because they can­ about the disgruntled Liberals. How does not follow this particular language, they the Liberal Party machine feel about this? immediately throw up a barrier. That surely It has done a fair job on Liberal members is the very reason why they should look at in the past. The members in this Parliament this project carefully and be right behind who put "Liberal" after their names do not it not only for the extra jobs it will create represent the Liberal Party of Queensland and the extra production but also for what any longer. it will do for international understanding in bringing two races to a better understand­ Mr. SIMPSON (Cooroora) (7.54 p.m.): It ing of each other and so avert future wars. is obvious that the Labor Party is being consistent. Opposition members are knock­ There has been criticism of the perform­ ing development and are knocking jobs for ance of this Government in relation to the the unemployed. How the devil will they environment. That criticism is so far from be able to go back to their electorates and the truth. We have Mr. Iwasaki with a tell the unemployed in their areas that they wonderful record of what he has done to are going to knock back this development improve the ecology. We have a Govern­ that will provide thousands of full-time jobs ment with a record that stands second to in this State? And what about the part-time none on conservation and the creation of jobs and the builders' jobs? It is incredible. national parks. We have seen a few of their colleagues With this project money will be poured into in Canberra drawing red herrings across the the State for development not, for instance, trail. Although they caused all of this unem­ a mining venture that would obviously have ployment, they at least tried to disguise it. a very detrimental impact on the area, on But here these members quite openly knock the soil and what-have-you so that it would this sort of development. They are not men have to be rehabilitated. This resort will of vision at all. improve the beauty of the area initially and At least this Government in 21 years will continue to improve it. It will also of office has shown what can be done for bring in outside tourist capital. That money this State by judicious and careful develop­ will be the cream on the cake and the spin­ ment. Look: at the jobs and the extra off from that will be immense. population it has brought to Queensland. It has been reckoned by people in the It is hard to understand why honourable tourist industry that it will have a fourfold members opposite just sit over there and effect. I hope Australians will use a bit of blindly follow the honourable member for foresight and vision and get in on the Lytton in his parroting. He keeps saying, bandwagon and publicise our products to the "What about the beaches? No-one is going Japanese who come to this international to be allowed to use the beaches." He tourist resort, so that they will take back a bit must have sand where his brains should be. of our beef and enjoy it at home. I am It is incredible, because the beaches are sure the Minister for Primary Industries there and they will be open to the public. will help line that one up. But think of Those people who have been to Japan and all the other not-so-usual meals and the seen the sort of work Mr. Iwasaki has ingredients that the Japanese use in their done realise that he is a man of vision. They cooking. I will be very surprised if the would have seen how he has improved the Australian farmers are not very quick to Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 631 turn out the pickles, the fish, the eggs and much of a yen he has for Government mem­ what-have-you that the Japanese prefer to bers, and how much he has given them. Prior eat. to the last State election, the members for the two Rockhampton seats were offered $500 Mr. Moore: What about raw fish? in cash for their election campaigns by the Iwasaki Sangyo Co. No other reason was Mr. SIMPSON: Yes; they like raw fish given, but we can work out for ourselves and seaweed. As the Minister for Local why Mr. Iwasaki would want to give money Government and Main Roads said, he can­ to Opposition members for their election not really go for them in a big way. I campaigns. What would it be for, other enjoy both in a small way. However, I than to buy them off? We want to know am sure that we will find new markets and how much Government members were given new ways of developing our particular for their election campaigns and, in fact, resources in this State. We have seen an how much the National and Liberal Parties effort from the Opposition to divide the were given for their overall State campaigns. community by saying that certain groups should not have certain land. I suggest they Mr. Iwasaki has, from his earliest begin­ are taking a very backward step because nings, when he started his own enterprises they will alienate a lot of people in their at 20 or 21 in the 1920s, always gone after own electorates. the elusive dollar or elusive yen, and he is doing exactly the same thing here in Queens­ Mention was made also of money being land. We have heard the Premier telling poured into roads in the area. The priority us what a great man, what a kind man, for roads in the area will be assessed by use, what a gentle man Mr. Iwasaki is and how just the same as anywhere else in Queens· all he wants do to is help us here in Queens­ land. They will receive no special priority. land. He is helping only himself! He has The honourable member for Woodridge bought and kidded the Cabinet, which is really surprised me when he accused this Govern­ the Government in this State because the ment of failing to encourage the tourist back-benchers on the Government side are industry. He must surely forget that the so weak and spineless that they cannot do main factor holding back the tourist industry anything about it. They do not have the in Queensland and Australia is Labor's lack guts to stand up and say what they really of support for a seven-day 40-hour week in think and do what they really think should that industry, which has disadvantaged us be done when they have the chance to vote with the rest of the tourist world. I believe on issues that affect the Queensland public, the honourable member is being hypocritical. and which the public want changed. And the Queensland public do not want the It has been said also that we are in a Iwasaki project in the form in which it is hurry to pass this Bill through the Assembly. now being presented, although they will Nothing could be further from the truth accept it in a form which ensures that when we are prepared to let it lie on the Queenslanders get a fair go. table for 14 days. That is a clear indication that we do not intend to hurry it through. The project must benefit Queensland rather We are doing this so that the community than Iwasaki. The State Government bends can study what is involved. I commend the over backwards to help any international Bill to the Committee. I believe it is far­ company, whether it be Japanese or any sighted. It shows the vision that has carried other nationality, that comes along and pre­ this Government through 21 years in office sents an idea for a project. The Government and given it the tremendous majority it has, does everything in its power to assist that and if the Opposition continues to perform company to become established. as it has done in opposing this Bill it will We have seen Tarong; we have seen the stay in political oblivion for a long time. Central Queensland coal projects; we have seen the Gulf projects; we have seen pro­ Mr. UNDERWOOD (Ipswich West) (8.3 posals to drill for oil on the Great Barrier p.m.): We witnessed a piece of classical Reef. All those involved international com­ theatre here this afternoon. We saw one panies for whom the Queensland Govern­ of the lieutenants of the Iwasaki Sangyo Co. ment would bend over backwards. But when recording the words of members of the a small or middle-sized Queensland company Opposition both by tape recorder and by wants some assistance to remain viable and hand. Fortunately, Mr. Speaker has dealt keep Queenslanders in work-for example, with that in the appropriate manner. This on the Ipswich and West Moreton coalfields is just another form of intimidation being -all the Government does is blow a lot of carried out by Mr. Iwasaki, yet we have hot air before elections but does nothing Government members being bought off with afterwards. It offers contracts to small con­ grand dinners, with plenty of Scotch and all tractors for public works, then withdraws the rest of it. them two months after the State election. Mr. Iwasaki is regarded in his own country That is what the State Government is doing as a very cruel man who will subjugate his for small and middle-sized enterprises that own people in the cruellest possible manner. are Queensland and Australian owned. But To coin a phrase, Mr. Iwasaki has a yen when an international company such as the for the Queensland Government. What we Iwasaki Sangyo Co. comes along, it bends in the Opposition want to find out is how over backwards to assist. It changes the 632 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill rules; it brings down special legislation and out their own dams in some cases. What is special franchise agreements such as the the State Government doing for them? Abso­ one now before the Committee. lutely nothing! It is pricing them out of the Look at the time of the night it is being business by increasing their valuations for debated, Mr. Hewitt. The debate will con­ rates, in some cases a thousandfold. That tinue through till about 10 o'clock tonight. is the sort of treatment that Queenslanders Matters such as this should be debated in who want to set up their own business the morning and in the early afternoon, receive from the State Government. instead of from middle afternoon till late Here an international company is involved at night. The media representatives would and the State Government is doing every­ then have an opportunity to come here and thing possible for it because it is in the pay report to Queenslanders in the morning of such companies. This franchise agree­ newspapers. By the time it hits the Press ment is designed for Iwasaki. We are now tomorrow, it will be stale news and once talking about the Bill and we have not yet again the people of Queensland will be seen it. In the Federal Parliament, when prevented by the actions of the State Gov­ a Minister in charge of a Bill rises to speak, ernment from learning the truth. at least he issues a copy of his speech and We have a State Government spouting the Bill. In the Queensland Parliament we propaganda about progress and development. do not see it till some time hence, yet Let us have some real progress and develop­ we are supposed to debate it. What a ridicu­ ment that will be of benefit to Queensland­ lous situation! How unfair it is! It is not a ers, not to Japanese only. We welcome the true parliamentary system. Japanese here, but we must make sure that Of course, in this State we have a Prem­ we get a fair slice of the cake. There are ier who does not believe in Parliament. He about 3,600 people unemployed in the Ipswich thinks that the Parliament of Queensland .is area alone. ¥/hat is the State Government a joint Government parties meeting. His doing for them? Nothing! system of command begins with himself, In fact, it was said at the last State elec­ then Cabinet, then the National Party meet­ tion that unemployment was not an issue, ing and then the joint parties meeting. As that no-one was out of work. Now Govern­ reported in "The Courier-Mail", as far as ment members are beginning to bleat about he is concerned that is as far as govern­ it like a flock of sheep, led by one madman. ment goes in this State. We have seen how The Government could undertake some pro­ that works since the last State election. jects of real benefit to Queenslanders. Let us give the building industry a boost; let us We have heard some very strange figures get the electrification of the railways back tonight. The previous speaker referred to to where it was supposed to be. All proposed thousands of jobs being created for Queens­ electrification of the railways was supposed landers by this project. He did not mention to be completed by 1978. Electrification will that Japanese were going to come in as well. not be completed for another five to eight In his opening remarks, the Premier said years. That is the result of the actions of there would be 460 jobs directly for Queens­ the State Government. landers. The Press this morning reported Government sources as saying that 75 per The CHAIRMAN: Order! That has noth­ cent of the work-force of the Iwasaki pro­ ing to do with the proposed Bill. ject would be Australians. That means, Mr. UNDERWOOD: I am trying to make according to the Premier, that there will be the point that the Government is worried a work-force of 613 persons, of whom 460 only about the Iwasaki Co., not about will be Australians and 153 will be Japanese. Queenslanders. That is a great number of workers to run a caravan park and a small building. Many things need to be done. We can finance them if we make sure that we get Let us presume that we are going to get a fair price for our produce, whether it be the great complex that has been referred to. minerals, coal, or primary products. We In fact, no-one really knows where the must ensure that we get satisfactory con­ complex is going to be built. In the early tracts with countries such as Japan, so that stages it was going to be built at one place, Queensland will get a fair return for its and then it was moved to another. In the exports. meantime an environmental report was made. I understand that no environmental report Queensland is the richest State in Aus­ has been made in connection with its latest tralia, but over 70,000 people in Queens­ position. land are out of work. What is the State Government doing about it? Nothing! It is The Minister for Welfare said that we selling out the State to foreign interests need these Japanese to cook Japanese food such as the Brazilians, the Japanese and the and to act as interpreters when the Japanese Americans-foreign overseas landlords. come to Australia on their holidays so that People in my area have bought 20 acres they will know what is going on. That is of land on which to set up their own small fair enough. He also said that the Japanese free enterprise, to use a favourite expression cooks and interpreters would each have an of honourable members opposite, and estab­ understudy to learn the trade. That means lish a small crops farm on which to produce that there will be 306 cooks and interpreters vegetables, and so on. They are scraping and their understudies, half of that number Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 633 being Japanese and the other half Australian. were normal, the Government would bring That leaves 307 out of a total work-force of them out in the open instead of enter­ 613. Those 307 are going to have to do the ing into them behind closed doors in secret. other jobs around the hotel complex-waiters, A copy of the franchise agreement should housemaids, gardeners, janitors, sporting have been produced before this debate was coaches, bellboys, porters, drivers of the brought on so that people could have a cars and buses that will transport visitors, look at it to assure themselves that there receptionists, storemen, croupiers for the is nothing to hide. gambling tables in the gambling dens, mas­ Let me deal now with Mr. Iwasaki's his­ seurs, Illt1uUers of iht: adrninislration and tory. Prior to ·world War II, the Japanese management and all the other general hands had an imperial policy of financial expan­ required to run an efficient resort hotel, not sion whereby they obtained their products to mention the call girls, who are a require­ and imports by financial means. In New ment at international resorts. Gambling dens Guinea the Japanese were buying tracts of and call girls, which Holy Joh is always land supposedlv for the purpose of growing against, will be set up here-- cotton. As ~ar came upon us, it turned out that these tracts of land were not really The CHAIRMAN: Order! I will not for cotton-growing-in fact they were far permit references to the Premier in such too small for a decent cotton plantation­ terms. The honourable member will refer but for landing strips. to the honourable gentleman properly. When the United States of America, prior to the outbreak of war, stopped the financial Mr. UNDERWOOD: I bow to your expansion of the Japanese, the military war­ wishes, Mr. Hewitt. lords of Japan took over the country and We can see that these figures are false. It declared war on their neighbours in Asia. is like the Tarong issue, on which one set Mr. Iwasaki was one of the persons who of figures has been issued by the experts and were very friendly with those warlords. He another set of figures has been put forward was astute enough not to become involved by the Premier to justify his siting of the directly in military affairs. As I said earlier, powerhouse. Parliament has not been pre­ he was more interested in making the sented with the true facts about the work­ almighty yen-a yen that he has promoted force. I will not use the word "lies", but I here in Queensland and dished out so wil­ say that many falsehoods have been used in lingly to members of the Queensland Gov­ connection with the Iwasaki project. ernment. Let us look at the tourist industry in After the war Japan reverted to its old Australia. We have a casino at Wrest Point economic expansion theories. Its economic with a staff of 600. That establishment has and imperial empire has expanded over a turnover of approximately 30 persons a Asia and Asia's near neighbours such as month. It is not much of a stable influence Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Malaysia and on full-time work. The Iwasaki project will South America. In all those countries the be one of the biggest the world has seen. people are crying out because the Japanese Certainly it will be the biggest Australia has have moved in and bought out places both seen. It will require many hundreds more politically and economically. employees than the 613 referred to by the Premier. We can see by making a compari­ The R.S.L. branch in my area had the son between one project that is operating guts to stand up and say that it was and one that is to be launched in the near against Mr. Iwasaki as well as against tak­ future that the figures supplied must be ing away the right to march in the streets. wrong. It was afraid of losing the things that its members and their mates had fought for Earlier this year we had a call by the and died for. It was against the taking Premier for the influx of skilled workers away of liberties and of the right to own from Japan. Already in this State we have our own country and handing it over to hundreds of young men and women who foreign interests, such as the Japanese. The have completed degree and diploma courses men of the R.S.L. know what the story is in engineering and other technical faculties all about. They have been through the pri­ but are out of work. They cannot find work son camps, they have fought through the in this State, yet the Premier calls for skilled stinking jungles, and they have seen tens workers from Japan. Where were the skilled of thousands of their comrades die. workers going to find jobs? Were they going to work at the hotel in Yeppoon? Are we Mr. SULLIVAN: I rise to a point of going to have working there more than 153 order. The utterances of the honourable Japanese referred to by the Premier? Some­ member for Ipswich West in quoting the thing smells, something is fishy-let's have a:ttitude of his branch of the R.S.L. are some honesty in this, and let's have more quite incorrect. He says that it is offended. than two weeks to look at the legislation so I happen to be a member of the Jan­ that the community can find out what is in dowae branch of the R.S.L., and I know it and debate it. that the R.S.L. is not opposing this proposal. The Premier has told us that the pro- posal involves normal land deals. There The CHAIRMAN: Order! There is no is nothing normal about them. If they point of order. 634 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill

Mr. UNDERWOOD: Let me deal now a small degree. We have a very serious with Mr. Iwasaki's personal life and his issue facing us today. We should have more activities in other places. Deeds speak time to look at the franchise agreement so louder than words. He is the Asian ver­ that Parliament can make suggestions and so sion of the Godfather, strutting around like that the gang of 18 on the Government front an Emperor who deifies himself and destroy& benches may take notice of the people of his people as he wishes. It was during Queensland. Most of the people of Queens­ the aggressive war in China in the 1930s land do not want this project. They want that Iwasaki made his first few million yen. it changed. He enslaved captured Chinese and made them cut down their forests to make rail­ Mr. DOUMANY (Kurilpa) (8.23 p.m.): I way sleepers for the Japanese Imperial Army rise to support the Bill but I find myself in its attack against China. During the rising at a most disappointing stage of the Korean War in the 1950s, he had a mono­ debate; the honourable member for Ipswich poly on the supply of sleepers to the United West has dragged it to the lowest depths. States Army. Here is the great man, I am appalled at his references to aspects the great friend of Queensland, the great of personal behaviour which are mere asser­ lover of this State and of this Queensland tions. I am appalled, too, at allegations Government. Mr. Iwasaki is an aggressive made without any evidence or substantiation. dirty old man, and when I say "dirty" I mean dirty. A Government Member: It is an embar­ rassment. His business grows out of war and he becomes rich out of war. He runs like a Mr. DOUMANY: It is an embarrassment madman after the gains. He is known not only to the A.L.P., but also to this in his own area for his cruel sacrifices Parliament and to Australians to have such of small businesses and small property narrow-minded comments levelled at a owners. He never repays his debts, and national of another country. Irrespective of if he obtains a loan he does not repay it the subject of the debate, whether it be on till at least six months later than the due Iwasaki or on sugar, the moment we start date for payment. He is a smart alec in debating personalities in those terms we drag his financial affairs. He has at least 60 this Parliament down into the mud. politicians in Japanese government in his pocket. He is a man who exerts heavy Mr. Sullivan: Have you ever heard a political influence for business and financial member of the A.L.P. put on a more shock­ ends. That is exactly what he has done with ing performance than that of the member the Queensland Government. In Japan he for Ipswich West? set up his hotel, where he has steam baths. It is a great hotel complex where the Mr. DOUMANY: It was terrible. rubbery old men come along and jump I wish to express my support of this Bill, into the pool with the young giggling school­ which, I believe, sets out to estaJ;>Iish a girls at the other end. I leave the rest new industry in Australia and which, to to honourable members' imagination. And all accounts, is a progressive, innovative enter­ that is the truth! Is this to happen in prise designed to give a majo~ boost to our Queensland? Is this what the great friend tourist industry and the regwnal economy of Queensland intends to set up to corrupt of Central Queensland. our youth, our young people and our men and women? Before elaborating on those comments I will attack the A.L.P. attitude to alien land­ That hotel is not good enough for the ownership which was introduced by the jaded tastes of the Japanese rubbery old Leader of the Opposition. The comments men. A system of transport has been worked made by the Leader of the Opposition today out whereby Mr. Iwasaki can bring the were extremely discriminatory. They contra­ Japanese rubbery old men and so on down dict the platform of the A.L.P.; they contra­ to Papua New Guinea where they can stop dict the professed ethnic concerns of the over for the night and inspect the tens of A.L.P. a la Whitlam and Grassby, and they thousands of Japanese war graves. In view contradict the obsession with Khemlani of of the high respect that the Japanese have two or three years ago-the preparedness to for their war dead, I suggest that that will borrow $4 000 million through that agent be a great money maker for Mr. Iwasaki. who was a' Pakistani. I should like to know After their visit to New Guinea, he will just how many Opposition membe~s are bring them to Australia where we can give happily driving Japanese cars, listenmg to them some of the sumptuousness that they Japanese transistorised radios and stereo are missing in Japan with their schoolgirls equipment and using other Japanese products. and what not. I shall now quote from the Platfor:m, Constitution and Rules of the Australian This is a very serious topic and I have Labor Party as approved by the 31st National said some harsh words. They should be Conference, Terrigal in 1975. Under the taken note of so that the people of Queens­ heading "Immigration" it reads- land can be fully aware of what the State "Labor recognises the valuable contribu­ Government is imposing on them. It has tion being made by migrants to Australia's been referred to in this Parliament only to economic growth, prosperity and culture." Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 635

Further down it reads- sition, and write off business opportunities of "No discrimination on grounds of race, the sort that this particular proposal envis­ nationality, politics, sex or creed." ages. They just cannot be written off because of emotional claptrap. But there is a lot Today the Leader of the Opposition laid more to international business relationship a stigma on the various ethnic communities between nations than this sort of thing. If of Australia-the Italian community, the we continued this reasoning ad nauseam, Greek community, the German community because of the battle of Waterloo we would and so on. All of those communities, down not buy any French motor vehicles or other through the years, have bought property French products. Because of Gallipoli we before becoming naturalised. It is an enor­ certainly would not buy dates and figs from mous insult to use the word "alien" as it Turkey. Fortunately, rational people don't has been used in this Chamber today. think this way. There has now got to be a real relationship between nations for the I shall now turn to the heading "Foreign present and for the future. :\ffairs'~ in. this document. This is very mterestmg mdeed. Under the subheading "Discrimination", it reads- Mr. Casey: We are talking about trade. "Labor opposes any form of segregation or discrimination on the grounds of colour, Mr. DOUMANY: That is right, and the race, sex, creed or politics and will insist honourable member for Mackay has a most on ending every form of such discrimina­ circuitous mental process. He can't equate tion within Australia and in Australian the Iwasaki project with the balance of trade; administered territories. It supports action they can be equated. I believe that we including sanctions, through the United should send the honourable member for Nations to end such segregation or dis­ Mackay back to school for a course in crimination." elementary economics. That speaks wonders for the comments of The next point I want to get onto is that the Leader of the Opposition. in return for the benefits that the economy is going to get in this country-the multiplier Mr. Miller: They are hypocrites. effect, the boost to employment, the local economy boost in Central Queensland­ there has got to be a measure of security for Mr. DOUMANY: It is hypocrisy. any enterprise whether it be Japanese, Let us look at some of the economic and American, British, Germany or Australian, business realities. Let us go to the core as a quid pro quo for that investment to be of the matter-the economics of it. What made. No-one is going to risk investment lies between Australia and Japan at this time without certain assurances, but at the same and what has lain between the two countries time as giving those assurances through this over the past 10 or 15 years? I shall refer franchise agreement and through this legis­ to the statistics of foreign investment for lation this Government and the Federal a start. Government-and I think a lot of the Opposition members have forgotten about . T~e Australia.n Bureau of Statistics pub­ the Federal Government's role via the ltcatwn on Foreign Investment in Enterprises Reserve Bank-can exercise at any time i~ Australia for the September quarter, 1977, measures to safeguard the interests of this gives the total figures for 1974-75, 1975-76 nation and this State. They can introduce and 1976-77. In 1974-75, Japan invested a them in the Parliament at any time. This is total of $A69,000,000; in 1975-76 not the be-all and end-all. This is not the $A63,000,000 and in 1976-77 $A96,000,000: end of time today here in this debate about Those figures are very substantial. They this Bill. A new Bill can be introduced at cannot simply be written off. any time, and new regulations can be enac­ I now turn to imports and exports or the ted at any time to safeguard the interests of balance of trade. In the year 1975-76 our this State and of this nation. I am confident that responsible Governments here and in iml?orts from Japan totalled $1,609 million Canberra will take those steps when and if while for that year our exports to Japan they become necessary. I am appalled at the totalled $3,162 million, or almost double. thought that we had only one bite at the So we have a massive favourable trade balance with Japan. It is probably one of cherry. The world does not go around like the most important components in our bal­ that. We heard that those airstrips up in ance of payments at present. The overall New Guinea were alleged to have been situation of balance of payments is not very bought before World War II. I was in New healthy, so it can be seen that the con­ Guinea for two years and I walked over tribution that our trade with Japan makes most of it and I didn't see any of them. to our balance of payment position is very great indeed and is a critical component of Mr. White: I walked over the rest and I that economic relationship. didn't see any. We cannot get up in an emotional argu­ ment, a la the honourable member for Mr. DOUMANY: If that is the case, then Ipswich West and the Leader of the Oppo- I would like to know where they all are. 636 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill

Before I sit down I want to comment on The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honour­ the denigration from members opposite of able member will come to the Bill. members of the Government, particularly members of my party. They say that we Mr. K. J. HOOPER: I will, Mr. Hewitt, should always be standing up for our prin­ and far be it for me to get offside with you ciples by joining them. I should like to as Chairman. But let me say this: the Min­ remind them of their slavery to their own ister from being on the extreme left as a party. I should also like to remind them of member of the British Communist Party is the ultimate sanction that exists in their now three steps to the right of Genghis constitution and rules. Khan, as I have said on previous occasions. An Opposition Member: What has that tvlr. Porter: At five years of age I was a got to do with it? member of the British Communist Party!

Mr. DOUMANY: It has a lot to do with Mr. K. J. HOOPER: Well, the Minister the sort of allegations that are being made has never denied it. Why does he not take in this debate because honourable members a point of order now and deny it? opposite are claiming that my colleagues on Mr. Porter: That would be a stupid thing the Government benches, particularly the to deny. Liberal members of Parliament, are slavishly following this Bill even though they may Mr. K. J. HOOPER: That is right; he has have disagreement with its intent or with never denied it. parts of it. We have freedom to dissent when we want to dissent. Expressions of that The speech that really amazed me here dissent have been seen in the House over this afternoon was that of the Minister for many years. But I am sure that A.L.P. Local Government and Main Roads. He members can never dissent and can never did not make anv bones about where he cross the floor of this Chamber. stood. He supports-this Government in allow­ ing a Japanese national to come in and take Mr. Elliott: Look what happened to the over control of some of the best coastline honourable member for Bundaberg. in this State for the sake of filthy lucre. Mr. Porter: How often have you been up Mr. DOUMANY: Yes, look what hap­ there? pened to him. So let us put paid to this nonsense. I support this Bill and I trust we Mr. K. J. HOOPER: I have been up there will have the safeguards that are needed to more than the Minister has. In fact, the protect our interests. I am confident of the bone has been pointed at him and he has capacity of this Government and the capacity been sung. His days are numbered. of the Federal Government to protect Aus­ tralia's interests in the development of the I heard also a speech from a gentleman I Iwasaki project. regard as a very good friend of mine, even though he is on the Government side. The Mr. K. J. HOOPER (Archerfield) (8.36 honourable member for Fassifern got to his p.m.): From the contributions to the debate feet here this afternoon with extreme reluct­ this afternoon, particularly those from the ance. His heart was not in the Bill. He said Government side, it was quite obvious that that he spoke of the Bill coldly and unemot­ most of the Government members were ionally. He was instructed by the Premier. indulging in a lot of double-talk and hypoc­ Mr. Muller: That's not right. risy. I must admit that I listened with interest to some of the speeches. One would expect Mr. K. J. HOOPER: It is true, and the the type of speech one heard from a Prem­ honourable member for Fassifern knows it. ier prepared to sell out Queensland's heritage just as he has always been prepared to do; but the speech that really got me-- Mr. MULLER: I rise to a point of order. The statement by the honourable member Mr. Frawley: That sounds like it comes for Archerfield indicating that I was from the Communist Party. instructed by the Premier to make a state­ ment is a complete fabrication and I object Mr. K. J. HOOPER: The honourable to it. member should not talk about the Com­ The CHAIRMAN: Order! I ask the hon­ munist Party. My colleague and good friend ourable member for Archerfield to withdraw the honourable member for Brisbane Central, that comment. last Thursday night here accused the Min­ ister for Aboriginal and Island Affairs of Mr. K. J. HOOPER: Not onlv out of being a member of the British Communist deference to you, Mr. Hewitt, but I also Party. The Minister did not rise to a point have a lot of admiration for the honourable of order so what the honourable member member for Fassifern in a personal capacity. said must be true. So the Minister for I haven't got a great deal of admiration for Aboriginal and Island Affairs has turned the his ability-- full circle, but as a lot of people do, he has changed from the extreme left to the extreme The CHAIRMAN: Order! I asked the right. honourable member to withdraw it. Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 637

Mr. K. J. HOOPER: I do so accordingly. Mr. GREENWOOD: That is a calumnious But the Government speakers here this after­ remark, and I refer the honourable member noon were all a complete apology for the to this book so that he may see that that Premier. Now entering the Chamber is the is allowed. Minister for Local Government, who was the worst. Why doesn't he tell the Com­ The CHAIRMAN: Order! mittee how he went up and bought up half the property in Yeppoon? It is already com­ Mr. K. J. HOOPER: With respect, Mr. mon knowledge that he is now the owner Hewitt, I did not mention the Minister's of the Roxy Theatre in Yeppoon, so there name. If the cap fits, let him wear it. again members of this Government have put filthy lucre before the people of Queens­ The CHAIRMAN: Order! There was a land. He has not denied it; it must be true. clear inference, and I ask the honourable I challenge the Minister-through you, Mr. member for Archerfield to withdraw the Hewitt-to denv that he is the owner of the remark. Roxy Theatre in Yeppoon. Mr. K. J. HOOPER: In deference to you, Mr. Hinze: What did you say? Mr. Hewitt, I do withdraw it.

Mr. K. J. HOOPER: The Roxy Theatre It is quite obvious that the Premier is and the two massage parlours. interpreting the beach as between the high­ water mark and the low-water mark. But when the tide is below the high-water mark, The CHAIRMAN: Order! Will the hon­ the public will have access right up to Coria ourable member please proceed to debate the Bay-for example, right along the 10-mile Bill. strip of beach fronting the proposed Iwasaki complex. People who travel up the beach Mr. K. J. HOOPER: I will, Mr. Hewitt. in four-wheel-drive vehicles can do so only The point I am going to make here tonight at low or near-low tide. The same principle is one that has not been made by any applies for the return trip. People on trail speaker in relation to the Livingstone Shire. bikes-and I think we are all aware that The Livingstone Shire Council land was pur­ many young people today ride trail bikes; chased by the State Government on behalf that is their entitlement in a modern tech­ of Iwasaki because he could not acquire it nological industrial society-and other people himself under existing Queensland legisla­ not using motor vehicles may return along tion. This is one of the principal reasons for the beach at the high-water mark but, the franchise agreement. The Queensland in doing so, will trespass on Iwasaki's land Government acted as the real estate agent that the State Government acquired for him for Iwasaki-in effect as the broker. The 262 from the Livingstone Shire Council. acres is owned right down to the high-water mark. I think you will agree with me, Mr. In addition, Mr. Hewitt, Iwasaki bought Hewitt, that under the provisions of the 40 acres of land from a Mrs. Cass, who, I agreement the State Government acquired might add, is the wife of the Shire Clerk of the title of the land and then, as a Govern­ the Livingstone Shire Council. I am told ment, sold it to Iwasaki as far down as the that she acquired the land without having high-water mark. Whenever the Queensland to go to tender or auction, which to me, Government has previously sold land front­ and to all other decent and honourable ing the beach, it has never sold it to the high­ members of this Assembly, smells to high water mark. This is an exception. heaven. In my opinion, there should be a full-scale investigation to see whether in fact Mr. Greenwood: That is not true. that did occur. It should be checked to ascertain whether Mrs. Cass purchased the land from the Livingstone Shire Council for Mr. K. J. HOOPER: I am not going to $500 and then sold it to Iwasaki for $35,000. take the interjection of the Minister for Survey and Valuation. I have referred to Mr. R. J. Gibbs~ Do you think there is him previously in this Chamber as "the a smell attached to it? Minister for Maps". He should be the last one to talk about anything in this Chamber. Mr. K. J. HOOPER: There is a smell all At least I have never had my hand in the right; it smells to high heaven. It smells like public till. I have never occupied two offices some of the rotten fish on the Gold Coast, of profit under the Crown. in the electorate of the Minister for Local Government and Main Roads. Mr. GREENWOOD: I rise to a point of Mr. Hinze: It smells like mY electorate order. That is a lie. It is personally offen­ after you have been down there. sive. Mr. K. J. HOOPER: Through you, Mr. The CHAIRMAN: Order! Even when a Hewitt, I say to the Minister that I noticed Minister is as incensed as the honourable on television last Saturday night that he gentleman probably is, he may not use the was spving on the decent, loyal citizens of word "lie". I ask him to rephrase his point Queenshnd who sought to exercise their of order. democratic right to march on Queensland. 638 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill

The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honourable the land, and that there is no mention what­ member will come back to the motion. ever of the $50,000 cultural grant. I would like him to indicate whether the remaining Mr. K. J. HOOPER: I wiii come straight $400,000 is going to be outside the fran­ back to it, Mr. Hewitt. I just wish to make chise and termed a donation to the State this comment, if I may. Government's slush fund. Is that correct?

The CHAIRMAN: If it is not to do with Mr. Bjelke-Petersen: Yours is the only the Bill, the honourable gentleman may not party that runs slush funds. make it. Mr. K. J. HOOPER: I do not want to Mr. K. J. HOOPER: It wiii be very quick, engage in a dogfight with the Premier, but I assure you, Mr. Hewitt. it is common knowledge that Mount Isa Mines Limited contributes very heavily to The CHAIRMAN: Order! I ask the hon­ the National Party campaign. C.R.A. too, ourable member to proceed forthwith to dis­ of course, and the C.I.A.! cuss the motion before the Committee. Finally, will the environmental impact study done for the State Government on Mr. K. J. HOOPER: In deference to the project be tabled in the House along you, Mr. Hewitt, I will. with the Bill? I am asking the Premier these questions through you, Mr. Hewitt. A buffer zone owned by the Crown should Is it true that the environmental impact apply to the Livingstone Shire Council land study has to be done to the satisfaction of in the same way as it applies to other land the Premier without any public scrutiny? in the resort. This is supposed to have a It is quite obvious that Government buffer zone which should be-and I have speakers have been conscripted by the Prem­ heard other members on the Opposition side ier to come in. It is also obvious that a of the Chamber say this today-at least 150 lot of the speakers on the Government side metres, as recommended by Sir Charles do not know what they are talking about. I Barton in his report. With all due respect to Sir Charles Barton, I am sure that no-one can see the honourable member for Warwick would ever suggest even in his wildest smiling and agreeing. imagination that he was a Labor supporter. Mr. Moore: Why would he? He would be about as much a Labor sup­ porter as the honourable member for War­ wick, who is grinning like a Cheshire cat Mr. K. J. HOOPER: Of course he has on my left. more common sense than the honourable member for Windsor. At least he is erudite The Opposition wants to know whether and knows what goes on. The honourable the unconditional guarantee published member for Caboolture has not spoken recently in "The Courier-Mail" relating to this time. We must give the Premier full the beach access applies to the Livingstone marks for common sense. He knows that Shire land, and whether the unconditional if he allowed the honourable member for guarantee is part and parcel of the franchise Caboolture to speak to this Biii, it would agreement. If there is no esplanade, the doom the Bill. So the honourable member Opposition intends to move that one be for Caboolture has been instructed not to created consistent with the view of the report come in. He has been told to keep out of of Sir Charles Barton that a 150 metre zone the debate, because all he does is make be created right along the beach front to stupid, inane remarks, and they would dam­ allow free access to the Iwasaki beach area age the Government's case. in totality at all times, not just at low The Opposition will certainly examine the tide, as at present. Bill in detail, and have a lot more to say I know, Mr. Hewitt, that as a very erudite about it at the second-reading stage. member of this Assembly you would agree that the Minister for Local Government and Dr. SCOTT-YOUNG (Townsville) (8.48 Main Roads said at a public meeting at Yep­ p.m.): After listening to that great oration poon that Mr. Iwasaki would pay $850,000 by the honourable member for Archerfield, to the Livingstone Shire Council-an initial I draw attention to Standing Order No. payment of $400,000 and an additional 104, which states- $50,000 as a cultural grant for the Central "Every Member desiring to speak shall Queensland area, with the remaining $400,000 rise in his place uncovered, and address being spent over the next two years. It himself to Mr. Speaker." is quite obvious that if there are any shady deals in connection with land development "Uncovered" means without his hat on, of in Queensland, one will always find the course. Tom Aikens was the only one to Minister for Local Government and Main speak with his hat on. Roads not too far away. Standing Order No. 106 states- Now that the Premier is in the Chamber "When two or more Members rise to I would like him to confirm that the fran­ speak, Mr. Speaker shall call upon the chise agreement only mentions $400,000 for Member who first rose in his place." Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 639

Mr. K. J. Hooper: I beat you to it. Opposition members forgotten what hap­ pened in World War I, when the Japanese Dr. SCOTT-YOUNG: No, the honourable shepherded our troops and were our allies? member didn't. These are the people whom Opposition mem­ bers run down. Honourable Members interjected. Mr. K. J. Hooper: Don't you wag the The CHAIRMAN: Order! finger of admonition at members of the Opposition. Dr. SCOTT-YOUNG: They are the rules of this Assembly. I hope that they are Dr. SCOTT-YOUNG: Just sit down and abided by when back-benchers like me rise shut up. That's good old Trades Hall tactics, to speak occasionally on a very interesting but it does not go over with me. I'm not subject and one of national importance. a Trades Hall man, so forget it. Tonight I listened to a great mass of Australia is now a cosmopolitan, multi­ emotionalism. I listened to members read­ national nation. Lee Kwan Yew does not ing from prepared briefs. Every A.L.P. worry who any person is as long as he speaker had a prepared brief. behaves and obeys the law. He does not care how much money is taken into his Mr. Casey: What rot! country, as long as it is taken in and used to develop his country so that its people Dr. SCOTT-YOUNG: It is not rot; it can live like decent human beings. That is fact. is exactly what is going to happen here. Emotionalism is a very interesting thing. Mr. R. J. Gibbs interjected. Usually when emotionalism comes into a room, common sense goes right out the win­ Dr. SCOTT-YOUNG: Has the honour­ dow or any other available exit. Common able member ever been there? sense and emotionalism cannot stay in the Mr. R. J. Gibbs: Yes, I've been there. same room. They cannot stay in the same board room, the same class-room or any Dr. SCOTT-YOUNG: It's sand and sand­ other room because one is balanced judg­ flies; that's all it is. The man who sold ment and the other is that peculiar emotion this land to Iwasaki said, "It's not worth that no-one can conjure up-it depends on a bumper. He must be off his head." He the individual. Today and tonight we have certainly is not off his head. Members listened to this sort of thing. People who of the Opposition might claim that he is have never seen a gun or a man killed in off his head, but in tax matters he is not. war spoke as if they had been witnesses to It is a dollar for us and a dollar for these emotional disturbances of human him-but at least we are getting the dol­ beings. lar. We will develop our country through his taxation system. For every dollar that Mr. R. J. Gibbs: What did Joh say? he puts into this project he will most pro­ bably save a dollar and we will make Dr. SCOTT-YOUNG: Shut up. I'm speak­ $2. He will create employment and a beauti­ ing; not the honourable member. ful country out of an area that now contains I take a lot of the comments made by only sand dunes and sand-flies. Opposition members as an insult to the We have to hand it to Mr. Iwasaki; men whom I looked after during the war. he's a genius. He has developed a mag­ I had many years' service in the Army, nificent set-up in his own country. Wher­ in fact 22 years. This country was born ever he has gone he has been a success. and bred on immigration. My great-grand­ Let us use this brainpower just as we used father came to this country as an Irish immi­ the brains of people who came to this grant. He was a miner. He cut holes country-some of them in chains-in years in the land and worked the land, and he and gone by. Because they had political dif­ his wife reared their kids. He ended up ferences with the Government of the day, fighting for the land. In fact my grand­ they were put in chains; but they helped father even fought in the Boxer Rebellion, make this country. In recent years the which is a damned sight more than the grandsons of many of them went to war grandfather of any Opposition member did. and were killed. What for? To make sure that you and I, Mr. Hewitt, live pretty Mr. Scott: You don't know my grand­ well. This is the crux of the whole business. father. Have Opposition members forgotten? The Dr. SCOTT-YOUNG: The honourable Labor Party has become an emotional rabble. member should produce the evidence; I can Mr. R. J. Gibbs interjected. produce it. Today I listened to nothing but denigration of the people who developed The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honour­ this country. The essence of a good fighter able member for Wolston will cease con­ is the ability to forgive his enemy. The stant interjection. whole Christian ethic is the forgiveness of one's enemy. But what did we hear tonight? Dr. SCOTT-YOUNG: It is no longer a We heard nothing but denigration and the case of the man versus petty man; it is crucifixion of persons we once fought. Have a national complex. If the Labor Party 640 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill does not want to see the development of What has happened all over the world this project at Yeppoon, we will take it about land tenure? Who developed the in Townsville. We have 5,000 acres of the United States? It was the English. Who most beautiful country that can be seen. brought in the slaves? Admittedly that was It backs on to an area that could be devel­ a condemnation of the English race, but oped into an international airport. The they are paying for it in all ways, and so area is full of wild bird life. Jurong Bird are the Americans. Anyone who makes Park in Singapore is a magnificent tourist money out of another person pays for it in attraction. People travel miles to see it, and the long run. Retribution comes irrespective we have the potential for a similar set-up of how powerful a person or nation may be. in Townsville. Why do people want to knock It came to Germany. If you live by the Yeppoon? They should take it and accept sword, there is no doubt that you will perish it. If they do not want it, Townsville "ill by it. You have only to look at history. accept it. Over the years it will be worth Germans, Greeks, Italians, Yugoslavs have thousands of millions of dollars in tourist all come to this country. They have enjoyed trade. Opposition members do not even it, taken up landholdings and prospered. know what tourism is. Why don't they get off their bloody backsides-pardon my What is \vrong with the Japanese? French, Mr. Hewitt-in the Trades Hall Nothing! Thev are industrious, clean-living and go overseas. and moral people. I think they should be allowed to settle here and invest money here Mr. R. J. GIBBS: I rise to a point of just like the people from other nations. They order. I object to the honourable member should not be debarred because of a stupid using unparliamentary language. war, which was virtually a trade war not of our making. It was a trade war, not a The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honour­ national war. Opposition members will able member for Townsville withdrew the realise that if they read history. word as soon as he said it. Furthermore I am in command of the Chamber, not Mr. Scott: You are dismissing it pretty the member for Wolston. lightly. Dr. SCOTT-YOUNG: I apologise, Mr. Hewitt, for using the common Australian Dr. SCOTT-YOUNG: I served in it. I adjective, but I become upset when I hear know what it was. of people sitting on their backsides in the We are a small nation dependent on over­ Trades Hall talking about conservation. seas trade. It is up to men like the Premier­ They have never even seen a wild goose, people with great vision-to guide us on so how can they talk about conservation? these lines. Unless we engage in overseas We have lashings of wild geese in Towns­ trade and accept overseas finance, we will ville, so if the Labor Party does not want get nowhere. We do not have the capacity to this project at Yeppoon, we will take it. generate capital. Even Russia could not have Mr. Iwasaki and the Premier have got put a big tank on the road without the together and they will produce what is pro­ Americans producing the machines and ~he bably the greatest complex Australia has factories to build them. But for Amenca even seen. Good luck to them. I hope coming to its aid, Russia would have lost it is successful and I hope that this Par­ the war and been overrun by Germany. liament votes for it. Mr. Scott interjected. Getting back to emotionalism-what hap­ pened to our forbears, the Germans, Greeks and Italians? Even the Vietnamese are Dr. SCOTT-YOUNG: A trade war; that coming here today. Do I hear Opposition is what I said before. The honourable mem­ screams about that? Men are running away ber now admits it; he has fallen flat on his face. from Communism, tyranny and oppression to this country, the freest country in the Mr. Scott: You know that it was the war world. Let us keep it free. Do not let petty of Japanese imperialism. political bias and bigotry come into this debate. That is exactly what honourable Dr. SCOTT-YOUNG: It was not. The members opposite have indulged in. Not one honourable member, silly boy, does not of them has advanced an argument in the know what imperialism is. form of debate. All they have done is state a case without debate. Not one Opposition We must realise that \\ e have to raise member has put one figure in opposition to finance to develop this country. This lwasaki what the Premier has submitted. If at the project is a move in the right direction. It second-reading stage honourable members will generate trade through tourism. The works necessary for this tourist centre will opposite can put up something substantial be done by our own people. It will give a against the Premier, I will vote with them. labour incentive to our people. What is But I do not think they can; I am on a more, it will give them foresight, which is pretty safe bet. It is like betting on the first completely lacking on the Opposition horse past the post. benches. Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 641

Mr. MOORE (Windsor) (8.59 p.m.): Mr. Mr. Jones: Be honest about it. What Hewitt, as soon as I get myself estab­ happened that night we went to the dinner lished-- in Tokyo? Mr. Hinze: Come on, curly, warm it up. The CHAIRMAN: Order! I really think that there is some limitation on reminis­ Mr. MOORE: I will not warm it up. I cences. intend to be rational about the whole business. Mr. MOORE: Of course there is, but the honourable member is talking about some­ An Honourable Member interjected. thing that happened in Tokyo as opposed to something that happened in Ibusuki. It is Mr. MOORE: It is not my cup of tea to another story and he will have to admit to be emotional. that. I cannot help but be somewhat amazed that in a debate of this nature which, to say Mr. Jones: You were not listening. the least, is controversial, all of the members on my side of politics support the Iwasaki Mr. MOORE: Otherwise the honourable project and all those of the Opposition member was lying. oppose it. Anyone with an ounce of com­ The CHAIRMAN: Order! It would be mon sense and nous would know that there wiser if we heard neither story. is no situation such as this where one side of politics argues one way and the other side Mr. JONES: I rise to a point of order. argues the reverse, but that is the situation I do not want to censure the honourable today. I put myself into that invidious member but he did use unparliamentary lan­ position by supporting the legislation. guage. He is telling fibs himself and he There would have to be someone on our accuses me of lying, and-- side with some misgivings about it and, by the same token, there would have to be The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honourable somebody in the Opposition supporting it, but member has won a point. Why does he I have not heard any tonight. That indicates have to push it? the polarisation which comes about when I ask the honourable member to withdraw matters of this nature are decided on party the unparliamentary word that he used. lines. As I said, I support the legislation. I have been to Japan and I have seen Mr. MOORE: I withdraw it to save time, what Mr. Iwasaki has done at Ibusuki and because I have told the honourable member I would have to support the type of concept for Caboolture that I will give him half in which he is involved. Had I not had of my allotted time. Therefore, I have to the opportunity to visit Japan I would prob­ cut my time down to 10 minutes. ably have adopted the attitude that the Mr. Scott: That is about all he is worth. A.L.P. has been supporting. In Japan I saw the scheme of an old Mr. MOORE: He is worth more and I Japanese man, an old visionary, to plant am certainly worth 20 minutes, but so as trees. He has not chopped anything down. to give him an opportunity to speak, I will On the contrary if something is missing, he give him 10 minutes of mine. puts something there. In complete honesty One of the topics discussed tonight has I could not say that Mr. Iwasaki has let the been aliens owning land in Queensland and side down in any respect, whether it be in in Australia. The argument seems to have connection with his beaches, his tree-planting, been reduced to Japanese owning land, not his hotel establishment or any of the other just aliens owning land. Italians in the sugar ramifications that go with a tourist resort. industry in North Queensland own land. I could find nothing missing. There are Italians in the fruit-growing Mr. Casey interjected. industry on the Granite Belt, Italians in the tobacco industry and Greeks in the fish Mr. MOORE: The honourable member shops. Whether they own 32 perches or 100 for Mackay was there. acres does not seem to make any difference; but it does seem that, if they happen to be Mr. Casey: The only misgiving you would Japanese, that is something different alto­ have is the absence of steak and eggs. gether. It gets to the situation where we have to ask ourselves, "Which war are we Mr. MOORE: That is true. I would say talking about?" If we talk about the 1914-18 that the Japanese diet is not my cup of tea. war, the Japanese were our allies. In the I was not very keen on raw fish and that 1939-45 war they were our enemies. sort of thing. I am not too keen on saki, either. I am a hamburger and small-beer A Government Member: What about the man. next war? The honourable members for Mackay and Mr. MOORE: That was to be my next Cairns were there with me and I heard no subject. If there is another war, who is to complaints from them about the Iwasaki say who will be the enemy? It is something establishment at Ibusuki. that we cannot forecast. What happens 61216-21 642 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill between the wars happens; what happens Honourable members opposite have all during the war dies with the war. We can­ talked about tourism, and tourism means not carry on as they are in Ireland, where money-I agree with that-but that is the they are worrying about what Oliver Crom­ point to which I take the greatest exception. well did and are still fighting over it. They have never got over it, but that is their A great deal has already been said in the problem. debate about the history of the conflict with Japan and whether or not we should have It would be as well to remember that Mr. aliens owning part of our country. I will not Iwasaki is going to spend over a period of take up that argument at this stage, but I time something like $200,000,000. With want to discuss the benefits to be derived inflation, that figure could reach by the tourist industry from such a develop­ $400,000,000. Whatever he puts there cannot ment. I think all members would agree that be taken away. Nothing can be taken away. in this modern world we need to have some It is going to be a good establishment. This field in which we can compete on the world old visionary believes in national parks, in scene. At present in this country we are wildlife sanctuaries-in fact, in all the things trying to compete with Japanese industry in that are getting close to nature. He is an many fields. Some mention was made today old man of about 78 years who has not long of the problems we have in trying to compete to go. He knows that he cannot take his with the Japanese motor industry. Japanese money with him. All he is trying to do is cars can be landed in this country for $6,000 leave something of moment behind so that but they are ultimately marketed at $10,000, historians will be able to write about him. because we try to protect our own industry. One just cannot understand why the A.L.P. I think it is a fair argument that in many can be all of one view and those on this side ways we are not following the correct course of the Chamber all of the other view. in propping up industries such as the motor industry; that what we should be doing is I do have a worry about the beach-front developing expertise in particular fields in a proposition. I have not seen the provisions way similar to that of Switzerland in the old that are contained in the Bill, but I under­ days when that country began to specialise stand that no private beaches will be per­ in fine engineering. When they did that, the mitted in Queensland. I heard that some world came to their door to trade with people on the Gold Coast own land right them for something they produced better to the beachfront, virtually right to the than anybody else. We should be doing the high-water mark. If that is so, I think a mis­ same thing. take has been made. There is no reason why we should perpetuate that error in Now, there is no easier field in which we can this project. I would like to think that the compete with any other country in the world legislation does not encompass the owner­ than tourism. I agree with the statement that ship of land by Mr. Iwasaki right to the there are perhaps no greater travellers in high-water mark, but rather the ownership the world than the Japanese. Wherever one or control of land which is some 100 yards travels-in London, throughout America and or so back from the high-water mark. He in Europe-there are large numbers of can control some area of land, but certainly Japanese in all the hotels. They are great not land to the high-water mark, which tourists. It seems to me we have a great apparently is proposed. opportunity to trade with Japan on an even basis, to give them the things they want As I promised the honourable member for from us and to buy from them at the right Caboolture that I would speak for only 10 price the things they want to sell to us. If we minutes, I have only a minute to go; so I are to develop the potential of our tourist will not go beyond this. industry by allowing it to be controlled by the Japanese, then it seems to me we are Mr. SHAW (Wynnum) (9.10 p.m.): We losing this great opportunity. Nowhere else have been accused by members on the other in the world can tourists see koala bears and side of being knockers of development. I kangaroos. They will put up with some say at the outset that this is unfair criticism. inconvenience in the standard of hotel It is certainly not the view of the Labor accommodation to see those things they Party to knock development, but it is our cannot see anywhere else in the world. view that we should not accept development at any price. Development of our State is Mr. Moore: Rubbish! Why don't they do something which should be controlled by it now? the State Government. Many of the speakers on the other side have hailed this project as a great boon to the State, and certainly Mr. SHAW: That is a good question. Why we may see something in the future which don't we do it now? I think we should be indicates that that will be so. I have waited doing it now, and it seems to me that Mr. in this debate for a statement from some­ Iwasaki is being very cunning in what he is body on the Government side that that is so, doing. but unfortunately we have not heard any The Premier has said that Mr. Iwasaki indication that there will be great returns to does not intend to spend $200,000,000 over­ the people of this State from such a devel­ night; that he will develop this project over opment. a long period-25 years or perhaps longer. Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 643

It seems to me he is protecting his bets, fingers. Why are we not dealing with the because he is allowing himself the oppor­ people who want to develop Tangalooma? tunity to get in on the ground floor now and Why are we not assisting them? Develop­ to be able to increase his investment as the ment of that type will provide jobs and also market warrants it. It seems to me that it is provide funds for the State. we who should be doing that now. So far in the debate no-one has shown A great deal was said earlier in the me that the proposed agreement will debate about the attitude of Australians to ensure that funds are channelled into the what happened in the war years. I think the State generally or that the people of Rock­ thing that is really relevant to this debate hampton will see benefits accruing from a is what was said about respect. Some­ development of this type. It is said that body said that we should be looking for the they will receive revenue from the sale of respect of the Japanese in our trading with souvenirs. However, as an honourable mem­ them, and I do not think anybody really ber said earlier, the usual procedure with argues with that point of view. We will a development of this type is that tourists gain that respect by trading with them on are brought into the country and everything an even basis, not by behaving as the Indians they do is channelled through a package did when the settlers arrived in the United tour. I hope that at some stage of the States of America. They handed over Man­ debate it will be shown conclusively that hattan Island for a few beads and blankets. protection will be written into the agree­ In effect, that is what we are being asked ment so that the people of Yeppoon, the to sanction at the moment. people of Rockhampton and the people of Queensland see some sort of guaranteed spin­ Dr. Lockwood interjected. off from the tremendous amount of money that is available from the tourist trade. Mr. SHAW: That probably bears out the What the Opposition fears, and what has attitude of the Government. The hon­ never been discounted, is the establishment ourable member thinks that the Indians of a monopoly controlled by one developer got a very good deal for their money. I so that the people of Queensland will not do not think that it was a good deal. see the spin-off to which they are entitled. In my opinion, there should be an opport­ unity for us to be in on the deal right from The Committee has been told of a guar­ the beginning. Many Government mem­ antee that 75 per cent of the labour to be bers have said that we should be looking employed in this project will be Australian. for jobs, and I agree with that. But Some honourable members probably have again one can take that argument too far seen other places in the world in which and bow down at the altar of providing a guarantee of that type has been given. jobs. It is good to be providing jobs in They will know that it does not work; that this State; it is not good to be providing it is not possible to ask someone to guarantee jobs at any cost or on any basis. If that 75 per cent of the labour used will one accepts that argument, one should also come from a particular field. In parts say that we should be supporting organised of Canada employers are required by law crime because it also keeps people in work; to employ a certain percentage of Eskimos. that we should be supporting and encour­ That just does not work. The problem is aging vandalism because of the number that people in a particular field are not of people employed in repairing the dam­ available, and there might be genuine reasons age that has been done. Of course, that why people are not available to do a par­ argument is absolutely ridiculous. There are ticular job. There is no way in the world some jobs that we do not need. We should that we could police a requirement that there certainly be encouraging the creation of must be 75 per cent of local labour. jobs, but we should be encouraging their creation in the right field. That raises an important question. If, as Perhaps I could draw a parallel here with has been suggested by Government members. the opportunities that we are losing while the tourist industry in this State cannot the argument continues about what is to compete with other parts of the world happen to Moreton Island. Again there because of union requirements, because of is an opportunity to provide an attraction the need to pay overtime to people who that will bring tourists from all over the work seven days a week, are we to understand world. Moreton Island is within 20 minutes that this new industry will be established on of an international airport, so it is not the basis that union requirements will not be necessary to provide a new facility. Some met and that award rates will not be paid people believe that one will be provided in at this project? If the award rates are to be Rockhampton. I should like to see it in paid and if the conditions of employment writing that the developer will provide an airport of international standard at Rock­ that are met by all the developers and others hampton. As I said, there is already in involved in the tourist industry in Queens­ Brisbane what passes for an international land are going to be complied with, how is airport, and we have an opportunity to it that Mr. Iwasaki is able to invest so provide within 20 minutes of that airport a much money and compete? I think that tourist attraction to which people from all question is worthy of an answer. over the world will come. We are allow­ ing that opportunity to slip through our Mr. Moore: Baloney. 644 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill

Mr. SHAW: It is not baloney at all. Lots me about the conditions, I will be the of people in this State are desirous of setting first to stand up and support him. I think up tourist establishments. that applies to the rest of the Labor Party and the rest of Queensland. We are con­ Mr. Moore: Why don't they do it? cerned that these things are not going to happen and that we are being conned­ Mr. SHAW: The answer given by the that Mr. Iwasaki, a very astute businessman, Government is that, because of the labour who has operated this sort of development requirements, they cannot compete. I am all over the world, is taking Queensland for asking why this gentleman can compete. a ride. That question is well worth an answer. The Government asked for the support I think it is fair to ask why a lot of of this side of the Chamber. Doubts were these requirements have to be included in expressed about why there is such unanimous the Bill. Why is it necessary, for example, opposition. We are not bound by a party to close the beach at night? That is a vote on this occasion. I am speaking in very intriguing question, and quite frankly accordance with my beliefs, and I believe I would like to know the answer. I can­ that we are losing a glorious opportunity not see any necessity for it. One explanation in the long term to do something for the given in this Chamber is that it is necessary benefit of Queensland. Only the short term to combat vandalism. That just cannot has been looked at. We are hearing so many wash. Vandalism is a problem in every conflicting statements from the other side tourist resort and in every local authority of the Chamber. area throughout the world. The highest incidence of vandalism occurs in public A Government Member interjected. toilets. Would anyone suggest that the problem could be overcome by locking Mr. SHAW: I believe that industries them up? Quite obviously if we did that covered by awards can be competitive. It is we would defeat the very purpose for not true to say that people in other parts of which they exist. Again I ask: why will the the world are not complying. I have been beaches be closed at night? Why will people to other places in the world where on Friday be prevented from going to them? night the staff goes home, and one does not get any room service or other service from Another question I ask is: why is so much the staff of the hotel until Monday. They land being made available for this pro­ are competing; they are doing it. It just ject? If Mr. Iwasaki wants to establish goes to show it can be done. Those people a world-class hotel, by all means let us who tell me that it won't work-let them tell welcome him and give him enough land me how it is going to work with Mr. Iwasaki. to complete his first stage. Let us give That is the question we want answered at him the few acres that he needs for a this time. world-class hotel. But to say that he needs thousands of acres for the building of a We are told that this is going to be the national park is absolutely ridiculous. Nat­ biggest shot in the arm that Queensland has ional parks are not built; they are created received in its history. I hope that that is to preserve what is already there. To say true. At the same time we are being told that he needs thousands of acres for the that nothing major is going to happen for establishment of sanctuaries is also quite the next I 0 years; that it will be a long­ fallacious, because the sanctuaries are already term development. there. Mr. Sullivan: Are you in favour of Mr. The good argument has been put for­ Iwasaki developing Yeppoon or not? ward as to whether Australian developers could go into any other country-somebody Mr. SHAW: Not on the basis of what has said Japan; I will say any other country-and been put forward so far, no. Mr. Iwasaki embark upon such a project. No way in the and his Japanese friends would have far world! The Japanese would not allow any greater respect for us if we attacked this Australian developer to corner their market. in a businesslike manner and said, "We They will allow a person to buy only enough know what we want", instead of allowing land to build his own home, and that is fair them to treat us like a lot of idiots. That enough. I would not condemn them for that. is what is happening at the present time. Similarly. I do not think they would condemn The Government is assuring us that Mr. us for adopting the same attitude. Iwasaki will abide by council by-laws and the laws of the State. At the same time It has been suggested that Mr. Iwasaki it is saying that, if he wants to subdivide will allow Australian participation in this pro­ any of the land he is acquiring, that will be ject in 10 years. How generous! Why not a matter for the Minister and it will not now? Why cannot Australians be involved go through the normal channels. The Gov­ in it at the present time? A previous ernment cannot have it both ways. Either speaker suggested that this agreement can the normal requirements are to apply or they be changed at any time in the future. In are not. The Government should be frank practice that will not be true, because, once with us and tell us exactly what is going to the development takes place and millions of happen. If anyone on that side can convince dollars are expended on the area, in I 0 years' Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 645 time we will not be able to afford to buy That is what they have to say in this book it back. The compensation that would be about this area. necessary to acquire the land would be We should congratulate the Government, beyond the means of any Government. Of and particularly Mr. Iwasaki, ?n having the course, just as the Egyptian Government vision to develop an area which, so far, is took over the Suez Canal, the Queensland a wasteland in Queensland. Government could take over this project and socialise it, in a way that it condemns. Mr. K. J. Hooper interjected. It has been suggested that the Govern­ Mr. BISHOP: Will the honourable mem­ ment will provide roads to this development. ber, whoever he is, mind going back to-- That's amazing. The Leader of the Opposi­ tion and I have asked questions concerning The CHAIRMAN: Order! the provision of roads to the new port development in Brisbane. The answers to An Opposition Member: He is the member those questions were to the effect that as the for Archerfield. people of Brisbane will use those roads they will have to pay for them. It would be only Mr. K. J. Hooper: The honourable mem­ reasonable to expect Mr. Iwasaki to make a ber for Archerfield. contribution towards the cost of development of roads, yet we are told that he will not The CHAIRMAN: Order! He will soon be be expected to meet the cost. the absent member for Archerfield. It has been claimed that the people of Mr. BISHOP: I appreciate that the hon­ Queensland are not interested in developing ourable member is rather vacant. this area. I would like to see the people Anybody who knows anything about tou~­ of Queensland given a chance over the next ism realises that by world standards this 14 days to buy this land at a price of $4,000 project is a classic tourist development. It an acre. I would jump at the opportunity. astonished me to hear honourable members (Time expired.) say that there is something . extraordinar.y about this project. The last thmg about this Mr. BISHOP (Surfers Paradise) (9.30 project is that it is extraordinary. It is per­ p.m.): I suppose all honourable members fectly normal. If we look at any overseas appreciate how exciting it is for me as a country we realise that it is a normal devel­ new member of Parliament to be talking opment. about tourism. I do not know how many times Parliament has dealt with this subject, I shall now quote from Lundberg's book but I must admit it gave me great pleasure "The Tourist Business". to see the Labor Party dragged screaming Mr. K. J. Hooper: What is that gentle­ into the 20th Century on this subject and, man's name? to be fair, that remark could apply to the Government. A number of comments have Mr. BISHOP: Lundberg, but the honour­ been made today, but not many of them able member would not be able to spell it. have related to tourism. In talking about Disney World he made We all know that this project has an area some comments which I should like honour­ of 24,000 acres of mosquito-infested swamp­ able members to note because there are land and nothing else. We can reinforce those comments-- certain similarities. He said- "The land development for this tremen­ Mr. K. J. Hooper: You are a very reluct­ dous project has fascinating financial ant speaker in this debate. aspects. Bought originally for about $200 an acre, much of the land was in swamp Mr. BISHOP: We can reinforce that, I and covered with snake-infested palmetto. point out to the honourable member for The swamps fitted in with the Disney plan Archerfield, because I know he can read, by of building their 'Magic Kingdom' quoting from the Harris/Forster survey into around water. About $12 million had to tourism. It was the only one undertaken by be spent for flood and water control which Governments in Australia. This is what was included some 40 miles of winding canals said nearly 10 years ago-- and 15 miles of levees. Land in and Mr. Casey interjected. around the project quite naturally sky­ rocketed so that, by 1970, surrounding Mr. BISHOP: That is right; it was 10 land was already selling for $10,000 an years ago. The honourable member for acre." Mackay has a good memory. Mr. Scott: That was built by the Ameri­ This is what was said in the report about cans in America, not by the Japanese in this area- Australia. "The team did not visit this area. From reports, we understand that Rockhampton Mr. BISHOP: As I said, Opposition mem­ and Gladstone (located 325 and 275 miles bers are being dragged into the 20th Century. respectively from Brisbane) both have Just because another country went in a potential for coastal cruising and trips into little before this country, it does not follow the hinterland country." that this is not a feasible proposition. 646 Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill

At the beginning of his speech, the honour­ Beach Protection Authority from having able member for Wynnum made one of the control in the resort. One wonders what most significant comments of the debate. that might mean for the remainder of the He said he wanted to know what the State State, particularly the Gold Coast area, would get out of this particular development. where, over the years and particularly I am sorry that he does not appreciate what recently, the Beach Protection Authority the State, in the broad sense, will get out has exercised very strong control. There of tourism. are some worrying aspects of this matter. Out of this particular project, the State It is true that the Beach Protection Auth­ will get the benefit of wages and salaries, ority wanted a 150 metre set-back from gratuities, pay-roll tax, administrative the sea. The agreement says that usually expenses, legal and professional services, the Beach Protection Authority requires a purchase of food and beverages and goods 150 metre set-back but clause 5 (4) says: sold; the benefits arising from advertising (a) the State is not liable for any damage and promotion, and the use of utilities such to property; and (b) the impact of this as electricity, gas and water; the benefit that precedent on the Beach Protection Auth­ rubs off from transportation; the benefits ority in its dealings with future development that come from licence fees; the benefits that proposals is minimised. These particular accrue from taxes-! could go on endlessly. clauses will cause some worry. Mr. D'Arcy interjected. I appreciate that this debate has been going on for a very long time and that any­ thing new that I could say would probably Mr. BISHOP: I am sure that the honour­ have to be quite extraordinary, but it has able member, above all people, with the disappointed me that the emphasis in this developments that he has undertaken on the Gold Coast, will appreciate what I have debate has been on the fact that it is the said. Japanese who are involved in the develop­ ment. I would have expected much better Mr. D'Arcy interjected. arguments on which to base the discussion of this matter, but I don't suppose it is for The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honour­ me to talk about them. Suffice it for me to able member is becoming tedious, too. repeat what I said at the outset-that I hope that this is not a unique occasion in the Mr. BISHOP: I hope that you are not history of this Parliament and that there will referring to me, Mr. Hewitt. be many opportunities in the near future for the Parliament to discuss the important matters of tourism. I would hope that this The CHAIRMAN: Order! I assure the would not be the only occasion on which a honourable member that I was referring to developer, whether he be an overseas the honourable member for Woodridge. developer or an Australian developer, would be wanting to put such a mammoth propo­ Mr. BISHOP: Thank you, Mr. Hewitt. sition to the people of this State. We do not need to go to America to look at resort-type developments. We can go Hon. J. BJELKE-PETERSEN (Barambah as close to home as Fiji. Fiji has dozens -Premier) (9.41 p.m.), in reply: I would of developments that have been achieved certainly like to thank members on this side in exactly the same way as the Iwasaki of the Chamber for their contributions to development. The Fijian Hotel is a classic this debate. It has been very interesting to example. draw a comparison between the speakers on One honourable member concerned him­ this side of the Chamber and those on the self with gambling. I do not think that other side. The honourable member for anybody who knows the Japanese believes Surfers Paradise quoted a number of benefits that they are particularly interested in the that will accrue to this State and to the sort of gambling we are interested in. If people involved in the project. Indeed, right they were and if they needed it, it would across the nation, in taxation and so on, be fair enough for the State to provide it for them. there are tremendous benefits to be gained from a project of this nature. Every single Mr. Casey interjected. member on this side of the Chamber has clearly indicated exactly where he stands in Mr. BISHOP: There are various types of relation to this undertaking, which means rip-offs. We do not have to go very far progress and development and jobs and job in this State to see some of the rip-offs that opportunities in so many areas. have occurred. Take Tangalooma, for example, where Mr. Kennedy, who some­ The amazing thing is that men in this body said the other day was a friend of the Chamber who were elected by people to Labor Party, charged $16 a dozen for beer. represent them, to help in the progress and If that is not a rip-off I don't know one. development in Queensland, have adopted An impartial person would have to admit exactly the opposite point of view. They that certain aspects of this franchise agree­ have adopted a negative stance. It is quite ment are unique. A clause precludes the clear to everyone that had the Labor Party Queensland International [26 APRIL 1978] Tourist Centre Agreement Bill 647

been in office since 1957, Queensland now Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: Again, this i~ would still be a Cinderella State. It would something that is with the people in Can­ still have been stagnating, with no progress berra. and no development. There would not have been the progress that has taken place in Mr. Bums: The one for the State Gov­ the years that we have been in office. ernment, not the Federal Government. In relation to this particular project that Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: The Federal we have been discussing tonight, honourable Government is looking at the same one, members opposite have indicated how small the one Mr. Iwasaki prepared for this Gov­ they are in their thinking and how negative ernment. I have spoken to Mr. Groom an attitude they take towards progress and and he said that they were happy. development. It staggers me that people like honourable members opposite can even get Mr. Burns: Why can't we have it in the into Parliament, that there are people who next fortnight so we can look at it? are prepared to vote for them. Obviously they present a different face and attitude Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: Again, this is to the people when they are out campaign­ a matter I would have to consider with ing and meeting people generally, because Mr. Iwasaki and the Co-ordinator-General. today we have witnessed a shameful exhi­ Opposition Members interjected. bition of opposition to something that will create much for this State in so many directions. It amazes me when people say Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: Honourable that much longer consideration should be members opposite are trying to draw a given to this Bill. They have no thought red herring across the trail in an endeavour whatsoever for the people who will be able to hide their negative attitude. The main to obtain jobs and work, those who want point is that Mr. Iwasaki has met the neces­ work and who want these opportunities. sary requirements and has spent the money Those benefits will start when the whole on this environmental impact statement. process of legislation by this Government and Mr. Bums: But why don't you let the the actions that are required by the Com­ public see it? monwealth Government are concluded. A Government Member: When will that Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: At the appro­ be? priate time no doubt these things can b.e released. But it is not for me at this time to say whether they can be released Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: As soon as or not. we resume after the recess, we will proceed to the second and third readings. When Mr. Bums: After you have put the Bill they are concluded, as far as this State to the third reading, will you commit your­ is concerned we have met our obligations. self then to allowing us to see it?

Mr. Warburton: When will the first Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: I will answer people be employed? that question in my second-reading speech. There are a couple of points I hav~ to check Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: That question in relation to the documents which belong again demonstrates how small Opposition to Mr. Iwasaki and for which he has paid. members are in their thinking. On the I do not think there is any problem in that one hand they adopt a negative attitude regard at all. But I am disturbed that and say, "It must not start, we do not there has been such a negative approach by want it"-- the Opposition. I regret very mu~h that Mr. Iwasaki has been spoken about m such Mr. Warburton: I want to know when derogatory terms by some honourable mem­ the first Australian will be employed on the bers opposite. They obviously do not recog­ Iwasaki job. nise the character of men such as Mr. Iwasaki, Snr., and Mr. Iwasaki, Jnr. They Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: The honour­ condemn themselves by making the state­ able member will be told when this is over. ments they do and they ought to be down­ As I indicated, Mr. Iwasaki has to meet right ashamed of the attitude they have the Reserve Bank requirements in regard adopted. I want to commend Mr. Iwasaki to the bringing of money into Australia. and all concerned with this project. I will I cannot forecast how long that will take. reply in greater detail at a later date on I have spoken to Canberra several times, and the issues raised today. as soon as these things are finalised Mr. Iwasaki will move immediately. I know Motion (Mr. Bjelke-Petersen) agreed to. that definitely because he has spoken to me Resolution reported. about my turning the first sod. So as soort as we can do so, we will move. FIRST READING Mr. Burns: The environmental impact study-are you going to make that public Bill presented and, on motion of Mr. tonight? Bjelke-Petersen, read a first time. 648 Local Government [26 APRIL 1978] (Aboriginal Lands) Bill

LOCAL GOVERNMENT (ABORIGINAL in this respect I wish to acknowledge for LANDS) BILL their contributions the Prime Minister of Australia (the Right Honourable Malcolm INITIATION IN COMMITTEE Fraser), the Deputy Prime Minister of Aus­ (The Chairman of Committees, Mr. W. D. tralia (the Right Honourable Doug Hewitt, Greenslopes, in the chair) Anthony), the Minister for Transport (the Honourable Peter Nix on), and the Aborig­ Hon. R. J. HINZE (South Coast-Minister inal Affairs Minister (the Honourable Ian for Local Go,vernment 'and Main R'oads) Viner), on behalf of the Commonwealth, (8.51 p.m.): I ask permission to move the and the Premier of Queensland (the Honour­ motion for the initiation in Committee of the able Johannes Bjelke-Petersen), and my Local Government (Aboriginal Lands) Bill Cabinet colleagues the Honourable Ran in an amended form. Camm (Minister for Mines), the Honour­ (Leave granted.) able Charles Porter (Minister for Aboriginal and Island Affairs), the Honourable Dr. Llew Hon. R. J. HINZE: I move- Edwards (Minister for Health), and the "That a Bill be introduced to provide Honourable Bill Lickiss (Minister for for the creation of a local authority area Justice). at Aurukun and a local authority area at Mornington Island and for purposes con­ I also place on record the services given nected therewith." in the drafting and preparation of the Bill I now introduce into the Queensland Parlia­ by the Aboriginal Affairs Directors-Mr. Pat ment a Bill to be known as the Local Killoran (Queensland) and Mr. David Hay Government (Aboriginal Lands) Bill 1978. (Commonwealth)-the Director of Local I believe that this legislation will be Government in Queensland (Mr. Harold regarded as among the most significant ever Jacobs), the Crown Solicitor (Mr. Dinny introduced into this Parliament, and I regard Galligan), and Mr. Leo Murray (Parlia­ my own minor contribution to the Bill, and mentary Counsel). its eventual passage, interpretation and Events leading up to the Aurukun and acceptance-and, indeed, its influence on Mornington Island controversy are now the future of the Aurukun and Mornington history. No excuses are offered by the Island people-as by far the most important Queensland Government, and no recrimina­ duty I have undertaken in public office, tions are made in this regard. stretching over a period of 26 years in local government and in the Queensland Parlia­ It is the determined wish of the Queensland ment. Government to provide for model Aboriginal I intend to convey to the Committee in communities at these two centres-communi­ some detail the Queensland Government's ties containing features that may be studied, intention to contribute through this legisla­ accepted, and applied to other Aboriginal tion-along with the Commonwealth Gov­ communities in the future, if it is thought ernment-towards the welfare, the rights and desirable-most certainly communities which privileges affecting the future of the Aurukun would be the envy of every other State and Mornington Island people. As Minister in Australia. for Local Government, I am ever mindful, The legislation extends to Queensland's of course, of the need not to set a people apart, a race apart, or to introduce a type descendents of the "First Australians" a of apartheid involving privileges that are not degree of self-management and control not available to every other Queenslander, enjoyed by people of Aboriginal extraction irrespective of race, colour or creed. anywhere in Australia. The State Govern­ It is necessary now to make a few ment, of course, stands squarely behind its acknowledgements. I wish to record indelibly agreement with the Commonwealth on this in "Hansard" the gratitude of the Queens­ unique piece of legislation. It stands firm land people to, firstly, the Presbyterian on the commitments it made and the terms Church and, latterly, the Uniting Church that it agreed to; it has not varied one iota for the years of service in these areas by their from the agreement reached. leaders and laymen. The work of a voluntary nature by so many people over so many At this point I place on parliamentary years cannot be adequately referred to in a record the terms of the agreement reached few brief sentences. However, these efforts between Commonwealth and State Govern­ are acknowledged and recorded. I trust that ment Ministers in Canberra on 11 April, in the future the Christian church will play which has given rise to this legislation. I its part in these areas in its true role of quote from the joint statement on the agree­ Christian guidance and understanding. It ment by the Prime Minister of Australia certainly will be given the opportunity to do and the Queensland Premier- so. "Recognising our mutual obligation with I would like to make special mention of the work involved in the final agreement regard to the wishes and the welfare of reached between the Commonwealth Govern­ the Aboriginal peoples at Aurukun and ment and the Queensland Government lead­ Mornington Island, the two Governments ing up to the preparation of the Bill, and after long and earnest discussion, have Local Government [26 APRIL 1978] (Aboriginal Lands) Bill 649

reached the following agreement that in I would like to deal now, in summary, order to achieve self-management for Auru­ with some of the principal provisions and kun and Mornington Island communities: clauses of this Bill. After the passage of "(a) a local government authority for this Bill, the Aboriginal councils for the each to be created on the boundaries of former Aurukun and Mornington Island the existing reserves; reserves will become corporate bodies known as the Council of the Shire of Aurukun and "(b) the local government council will the Council of the Shire of Mornington, consist of the existing councils until the respectively. The constitution of the corpor­ next State local government council ate bodies in the names of the respective elections which will take place next councils is necessary for them to acquire and April. These councils will be the manag­ hold land leased to them under the Act, and ing authority; the councils will have perpetual succession "(c) in order to support the com­ and title over the land held in trust by them munities, there will for each one be a for inhabitants of their areas. Members of co-ordinating and advisory committee to the Aboriginal councils for the former Auru­ the council consisting of people rep­ kun and Mornington Island reserve areas in resentative of authorities delivering ser­ existence at 6 April 1978 will constitute the vices including one representative of the first councils of the respective shires. The Commonwealth Department of Aborigi­ first meeting of these bodies will be convened nal Affairs. in accordance with the Local Government "The Queensland Government has Act 1936-1977 by the Minister for Local offered to consult with the Commonwealth Government as soon as practicable after the Government on the terms of legislation passing of this Bill. In the interim, consul­ required to provide for self-management tation with representatives of the Uniting through the operations of local govern­ Church will take place to effect the smooth ment, in order to achieve mutual agree­ hand-over of management of the former ment between the relevant Ministers. In reserve areas to the councils. the context of that agreement, the Queens­ The chairman and members of each land Government plans to grant to each Aboriginal council in the two areas will local government authority a special lease continue as shire council chairmen and mem­ of the area, to secure the preservation bers, respectively, until the normal triennial of the people's traditional rights, use and local authority elections throughout Queens­ occupancy of the land. land on the last Saturday in March 1979. For "The Premier of Queensland, after con­ the record, the members who will make up ferring with his Minister for Aboriginal the councils of the Shires of Aurukun and and Island Affairs (Mr. Porter) and his Mornington, until the 1979 elections, are- Minister for Local Government (Mr. Hinze), believes that action in terms of this Aurukun- agreement could be introduced next week Chairman: Mr. Donald Peinkinna into the Queensland Parliament." Members: Mr. Barry Ngakyunkwohka (Deputy Chairman), Mr. Eric Koo'oila, Let me assure the Committee, and the Mr. Roy Landis, Mr. Fred Kerindun; Queensland community, that there has been no conflict of purpose between the relevant Mornington- State and Commonwealth authorites on the Chairman: Mr. Larry Lanley very important issue of what this legislation Members: Mr. Prince Escott (Deputy is all about, and what it sets out to achieve. Chairman), Mr. Roger Kelly, Mr. Further, I would reaffirm that present State Albert Wilson, Mr. Nelson Gavenor and Federal Government commitments and obligations to the people of Aurukun and As in the terms of the Commonwealth- Mornington Island, in the areas of housing, State agreement, this Bill provides for the health, education, justice and other fields, will appointment of co-ordinating and advisory not be adversely affected or diminished under committees to assist both shire councils in either the agreement reached or this legisla­ what will be a new and quite demanding tion. In fact, through Queensland's local era of self-government and control for the government system, which is by far the most two communities. These committees will effective and autonomous in Australia, the act, as their titles indicate, in an advisory Aboriginal communities stand to gain even capacity. Each will be appointed for an more State assistance and support through initial period of three years, but this period this legislation. may be continued at the council's request. I think it is worth reflecting on the fact The basic functions of each committee that the State which produced the first will be- Aboriginal member of Federal Parliament, * to assist the local authorities, and the and the first Aboriginal member of a State Government, in the formulation of policy House-! refer to this Assembly of course­ for the control and management of the now, through this Bill, will have produced new shire councils; one of the most significant advances in Abor­ * to assist in the fiscal management and iginal affairs legislation in Australia. economic planning of the two councils; 650 Local Government [26 APR.IL 1978] (Aboriginal Lands) Bill

* to advise the councils, and the Minister, As in the case of other lands now granted on by-laws proposed to be made by the by the Crown, the Bill reserves to the Crown councils; the mineral rights in the leased areas in * to advise on general administration mat­ respect of all gold and other minerals within ters and on ways of overcoming any the meaning of the Mining Acts and all problems encountered; and petroleum within the meaning of the Petroleum Act. Rights of easement also * to advise the councils, and the relevant are reserved to facilitate any mineral opera­ Ministers, on matters relating to the general tions approved. interest of residents of the two local auth­ ority areas. I should stress here that sections 29 and 30 of the Aborigines Act 1971 to 1975 will Each co-ordinating and advisory committee still apply in respect of mining in the two will comprise a representative of the Minis­ shires as if the two areas were still specific­ ter for Local Government, a representative ally reserved for Aborigines. With the of the Queensland Minister for Aboriginal change of status of the two areas, however, and Island Affairs and a representative of the councils become trustees of the respec­ the Commonwealth Minister for Aboriginal tive former reserve areas instead of the Affairs. Director of Aboriginal and Islanders As I have previously indicated, the Auru­ Advancement and rights to entry or to pros­ kun and Mornington Island Aboriginal pect or to mine will be subject to authorisa­ Councils constituted as corporate bodies under tion of the councils, as lessees, or the this Bill are deemed to be local authorities Governor in Council. within the meaning of the Local Govern­ ment Act and to have functions, powers, Provisions of the Aurukun Associates duties, obligations and responsibilities Agreement Act 1975 or any amendment to accordingly. that Act would not be affected by the passing of this Bill. Thus it can be seen Provision is made for elections-the same that the two councils will have a real say as for every other local authority in Queens­ in respect of future mineral prospecting or laud-and the appointment of returning mining in their areas. officers. The first elections of both councils, as indicated, will be the last Saturday in Taking the point further-the legislation March next year, the date of the normal retains for the two councils a very real say, triennial local authority elections in the as lessees of land held in trust for their State. communities, on who should be allowed to enter or remain in their areas. In essence, A key aspect of this Bill which makes people authorised to reside in the new shires the role of the Aurukun and Mornington will include- Shire Councils-and the rights of inhabitants * people lawfully entitled to be on the of the two areas--quite different from that former reserve areas as at 5 April 1978, of any other local authority in Queensland is the provision for the granting of special * descendants of those people, leasehold rights to both councils. * a former resident of the reserve areas who obtains council approval to return, Under the Bill, once passed, the Governor in Council will be required to grant 50-year * descendants of returned residents, and leases to both councils over the areas cover­ * anyone acting under a power conferred ing the former Aurukun and Mornington by statute or a lease, permit or authority. Island reserves. The latter provision includes such people as The Bill provides for the councils to hold teachers, medical officers, policemen and these lease areas in trust for the benefit of similar people holding public office. Pro­ inhabitants of the shires, and it makes vision is made for temporary visits or stays specific provision for the preservation of in the two areas for people such as the Gov­ traditional rights of Aborigines in regard ernor-General of Australia, the Governor of to hunting and gathering. This includes Queensland, a person providing religious the taking for their own consumption of instruction, material comfort or medical aid, specimens of native fauna, and rights to members of State or Federal Parliament, gather, dig and remove forest products, candidates for election to either the Queens­ quarry material, etc., to the extent that this land or Commonwealth Parliament, and material is required for their domestic use. assistants to these people. Local Government [26 APRIL 1978] (Aboriginal Lands) Bill 651

The Bill gives the two councils authority throughout Queensland, too-either council to make by-laws regulating the presence and acted illegally. under the Act and against conduct of people entering or living in their the :interests of good local government. shires-including authority to exclude or Under this Act, the power to dissolve either restrict people from entering, being in or council may be exercised by the Governor residing in the areas. The councils also in Council only on the recommendation of would be empowered to evict people who the Minister for Local Government and are in the areas without authority, or those after consultation with the Queensland Min­ who contravene or fail to comply with rele­ ister for Aboriginal and Island Affairs and vant by-laws. The Bill also authorises mem­ the Commonwealth Minister for Aboriginal bers of the Queensland Police Force, upon Affairs. request, to assist in the eviction. A person Apart from the traditional areas of Com­ refused entry to the shires may appeal to monwealth and State financial support to the Minister for Local Government against which I have previously referred, and to such a refusal, and the Minister may require which both Governments are firmly com­ the appellant and the council to furnish mitted-health, housing, education, justice, information to assist him to decide the etc.-this legislation will open up an avenue appeal. The councils, on demand from the of financial support for these two commun­ person refused entry, will give notice, in ities through the Local Government Grants writing, setting out the reason or reasons Commission. As honourable members would for the refusal. know, this commission is responsible for The councils' wider by-law-making powers allocating State and Commonwealth financial will extend to by-laws under the Local Gov­ assistance to local authorities throughout ernment Act, to give effect to the objects Queensland-and the Aurukun and Morn­ and purposes of the Act, and the councils' ington Shire Councils will qualify for con­ role under it. The legislation makes specific sideration by the Commission. There are provision for the appointment of shire clerks numerous special circumstances in both areas and other staff by the two local authorities, which no doubt will be taken into account and, if either fails to do so, a person nom­ by the Commission in determining the allo­ inated by the Governor in Council may per­ cations from available funds that both coun­ form the duties of shire clerk. cils receive. Both the Aurukun and Mornington Shire In conclusion, I wish to make it abundantly Councils-as with all other local authorities clear that the Queensland Government is not in Queensland-would be subject to audit in competition with the Commonwealth Gov­ scrutiny by the Auditor-General. ernment, or anyone else for that matter, in trying to win the hearts and minds of the On the town-planning side, planning and Aurukun and Mornington Island commun­ building considerations with specific relevance ities. However, the Government is deter­ to the life-style and background of the mined to see that the people of Aurukun Aboriginal people could perhaps be applied and Mornington Island are not placed in to more effect for the benefit of both com­ the same embarrassing and degrading situ­ munities. In this respect, I will be having ation that confronts Aboriginal people in discussions with the Local Government many other parts of Australia. Department's town-planning and building branches to see whether model Aboriginal I believe honourable members would villages could be planned for these areas. agree with me that the standing of the I will be having talks with representatives Aborigine in sections of the white com­ of the Queensland Local Government Associ­ munity has sunk to a sorry all-time low ation also on what assistance the association because of the effect of paternalistic, hand­ and member councils could give in helping out policies which, in too many cases, have to get the new Aurukun and Mornington left the once-proud and independent Abo­ Shire Councils off the ground. I am confi­ rigine almost completely dependent on the dent that assistance will be forthcoming dole or other forms of prop-up assistance from that area as well. for his very existence. Mr. Scott: What hypocrisy! There has been considerable speculation in some quarters about the power to dissolve Mr. HINZE: Of course, the honourable the new Aurukun and Mornington Shire member would know. He should go and get Councils. Let me put the record straight. his nappy changed. That is what is wrong Firstly, there would be no such move unless with him. He has not grown up; one day -and this applies to all other councils he might. 652 Local Government [26 APRIL 1978] (Aboriginal Lands) Bill

In the process, the Aborigines' self-respect I received three phone calls this after­ has been shattered also, in so many cases. noon-before that programme went to air The whole thrust of this legislation is to tonight. Each of those phone calls was from restore and build up Aborigines' self-respect a person of influence who knows the true through self-management in local govern­ situation at Aurukun and assured me of ment so that they, and specifically the people two things-that the people of Aurukun are of Aurukun and Mornington Island, whom still as determined as ever not to be taken this kgislation covers, don't suffer that fate. over or controlled by the Queensland This legislation will set the people of Government, and that the people who Aurukun and Mornington Island on the appeared on that television programme path to playing a meaningful self-manage­ tonight do not come from Aurukun and in ment role through local government, which fact came from Weipa South. They were their fellow Aborigines outside of Queens­ put up. It was a bodgie job by a very bodgie land don't now enjoy. and clumsy Minister. The Bill refers to maps showing the I feel compelled to say that the appoint­ boundaries of the Shires of Aurukun and ment of the Honourable C. R. Porter to this Mornington, and the boundaries of the Shire very sensitive portfolio can only be described of Cook after the Shire of Aurukun is as lunacy and can be compared with the excised from it. The Bill makes provision appointment of Idi Amin as Secretary­ for the maps concerned to be deposited in General of the United Nations. the Department of Mapping and Surveying, the offices of the respective councils and the This debate needs to examine some of the office of the Director of Local Government. facts leading up to this legislation and the For the information of honourable members, effect that it has had on the black people at I hereby table a copy of each map. Aurukun and the black people at Morning­ ton Island. Whereupon the honourable gentleman laid the documents on the table. Mr. I. J. GIBBS: I rise to a point of order. The honourable member is reading his Mr. HINZE: I would stress that I do not speech. propose to take this Bill past the intro­ ductory stage at this juncture. This will allow The CHAIRMAN: Order! If the honour­ it to lie on the table of the House for public able member is reading his speech, I ask scrutiny for at least two weeks. him to desist. I commend the motion to the Committee. Mr. R. J. GIBBS: Thank you, Mr. Hewitt. I was referring to copious notes. Mr. R. J. GIBBS (Wolston) (10.12 p.m.): The Opposition welcomes the opportunity to I have spoken to many people on Aborig­ debate this Bill which the Government has inal reserves, particularly Kowanyama, Weipa deliberately delayed bringing before this and Mornington Island. In the past Parliament because of mounting opinion months while I have been a member of this against the Government in its attempts to Assembly, along with my colleague the hon­ denigrate black Australians and black ourable member for Cook, I have undertaken Queenslanders. visits to all those areas and have spoken with hundreds of the black people in those A Government Member interjected. communities. Again I stress that the feeling has been unanimous-no control by the Queensland Government, and no control, Mr. R. J. GIBBS: It does not matter about particularly, by the Department of Abori­ the tripe from over there. The biggest load ginal and Island Affairs in this State. of tripe that has ever been dished out was on national television in Queensland tonight. Many people on those reserves have had We saw people orchestrated in a managed quite close contact with the Northern Ter­ stage play by either the Minister or some ritory tribal people and are well aware of other person who claimed to be from the difference between the Northern Ter­ Aurukun and claimed that the people up ritory and the Queensland legislation. The there were suffering because they had been legislation differs greatly on land ownership exposed to different sorts of pressures in the and management. There is a difference in community and did not want to be brought the fundamental rights of Aborigines only under the control of the Federal Government. because of the location of the Queensland Local Government [26 APRIL 1978] (Aboriginal Lands) Bill 653

State border. The people on the Queens­ Community of Aurukun, found that it is land side are rightly dissatisfied with the the people's wish to remain under the Queensland Government. This legislation Administration of the Uniting Church of before us tonight is like the curate's egg; it Australia. is good in parts-but probably most of it "We would therefore appreciate it if is rotten. The Bill does very little to change you would pass this to the Synod of North that, and in fact in many aspects it will Queensland, along with our thanks for be seen for what it really is. their support. We look forward to working I regret very much that the Minister for together in the future." Local Government had to be the bunny to That letter has been signed by every member bring the Bill before us because I believe of the present council at Aurukun. that his approach in the past has been some­ what sympathetic towards the Aboriginal I refer also to the report presented to people. It would have been far more fitting this Parliament by Sir David Longland on if the ball had been kept in the court where the facts surrounding the attitude of the the responsibility belongs, that is, with the Aurukun people to the proposed mining ven­ Minister for Aboriginal and Island Affairs. ture, and under the heading "Influence of Church and Department of Aboriginal and Some of the contents of the Bill in the Islanders Advancement" he says- way it has been presented this evening mean "The Presbyterian Church has a seventy only one thing, and that is tighter control by year involvement with this Mission and the State Government over the affairs of the its healthy, widespread influence is reflected Aboriginal people. I will go into some in that the Aurukuns referred again and of the aspects of the Bill which have been again to the Church as 'The Mother'. specifically mentioned if time permits me to Unquestionably, the people now have no do so. wish to remove themselves from this The Minister for Aboriginal and Island influence." Affairs has said that the blacks do not want That decision still stands today. The advice to be under the auspices of the Federal from Sir David Longland to this Parliament Government, but, Mr. Hewitt, I put these was the correct advice, and it shows a figures to you and to the Committee here complete lack of knowledge and a funda­ this evening; they completely refute that mental lack of understanding of this area most "unknowledgeable" statement by the that this Government should be legislating Minister. In February this year an inde­ to enable the forced take-over of a people pendent scientific survey carried out by the who do not want to be taken over in these Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders Legal circumstances. Service revealed that on the choice as to the legislative authority to be responsible for Not only does this go against the wishes reserves the people answered in this way: of the black people, but it is in direct defi­ at Aurukun, the Queensland Government 3 ance of the 1967 referendum, which specifi­ per cent, the Commonwealth Government 85 cally gave power to the Federal Govern­ per cent, and Don't know 12 per cent; at ment to legislate in this area. I might point Mornington Island, the Queensland Govern­ out that in that 1967 referendum nationally ment 12 per cent, the Commonwealth Gov­ 5,100,000 people voted "yes" to the question ernment 86 per cent, and Don't know 2 per and 700,000 against. In Queensland alone cent-a very clear indication of where they 748,000 people voted for the question and want the responsibility to lie. 96,000 against. The referendum was passed in all States of Australia by a record majority, The decision to act in this matter was and Queensland recorded the highest per­ made without any consultation with the centage of votes for the question of any State residents of Aurukun and Mornington Island, -this State which has the largest number and I refer to a letter from the Aurukun of black people of any State in Australia Council dated 18 November 1977 to Mr. today. J. C. Hooper, Division of World Mission, Uniting Church in Australia, which reads Mr. Porter: What was the question on the as follows- ballot-paper? "Dear Sir, "We, the undersigned members of the Mr. R. J. GIBBS: The Minister would Aurukun Community Council, have, after not know. His ability in this field is very extensive talks with the members of the questionable. 654 Local Government [26 APRIL 1978} (Aboriginal Lands) Bill

The Aurukun debate has seen some spuri­ settlements they found that at State-adminis­ ous, inane and denigratory statements made tered settlements half the children had nutrit­ by the Premier and the Minister for Aborigi­ ional brain damage; some children aged six nal and Island Affairs not only against mem­ looked about three, and children were fal­ bers of the Aboriginal community but against ling behind in their schooling. Children aged the most prominent members of the church. six years in the church settlement were They have attacked the Uniting Church and equaliing the attainments of white children, Professor Busch, Archbishops Rush and Arn­ but children at the Queensland State settle­ ott, the president of the Lutheran Church, ments were not attaining those standards. and the Australian Council of Churches. Let me refer also to mortality rates per thousand. The Premier's statement that the church was concerned only with the bauxite deposits Mr. Bertoni interjected. verifies this point, as it was clearly known that the Queensland Government had com­ Mr. R. J. GIBBS: The honourable mem­ plete and total control over the bauxite under for Doomadgee certainly is an expert on the Aurukun Associates Agreement Act of Aboriginal affairs. He proved that by his 1975. The lunacy of these statements can performance at Doomadgee at the last State best be summed up by the attacks that were election. made on a Mr. Frank Purcell, solicitor for the Aurukun people, who has been described The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honour­ by senior public servants in Queensland as able member is the member for Mount Isa. a Communist, and by the Minister for Mines, He will be so referred to. Energy and Police as an impostor. The irony of this-it is in writing and can be Mr. R. J. GIBBS: The member for Mt. checked out by honourable members oppo­ Isa. Before I was rudely interrupted by site-is that Mr. Purcell was the Liberal the honourable member for Mt. Isa, I was Party candidate against Dr. Jim Cairns in referring to mortality rates per thousand the Federal seat of Lalor in 1975. So cop based on the National-Liberal Government's that! own figures for 1975-76. At the State­ administered station of Palm Island the Time and time again over the past few mortality rate was 36.2 per cent; at the weeks the Premier has labelled Liberal mem­ Government station of Edward River the bers as Communists. Again, as honourable mortality rate was 34.2 per cent. At Auru­ members can see, the lunacy goes back: kun-note the difference, Mr. Hewitt-it many years. The primary reasons that the was 15.6 per cent and at Mornington Island Minister has given as a lead-up to this 10.2 per cent. That is a clear indication legislation have been the inadequate provision of who has been best equipped to handle of health and education facilities. These two the job in those areas. areas have been the direct responsibility of I think it is relevant in this debate to the Queensland Government. It has the mention other statements made by the responsibility of providing nurses, visiting Minister that have been designed to mis­ medical facilities, flying doctor services and lead members of this Assembly. Mr. Porter all the other services which the Premier and has blatantly attacked the outstations that the Minister for Aboriginal and Island have been established by the Aboriginal Affairs say are now inadequate. In the people to enable them to find the freedom field of education, it also has the responsibil­ and the life-style that is compatible with ity to provide teachers. It is the Queens­ their traditions. He has made those state­ land Government's responsibility to see that ments without having ever visited one of all these things are taken care of. In a these outstations. He has described them ministerial statement on 5 April 1978 the as "apartheid in the north" and as "a Minister for Aboriginal and Island Affairs doomed attempt to return to the glories of said- the past." Nothing could be further from ". . . that this House and the Australian the truth. Allowing people to make this decision and to take this action by their people be given the true facts relating own free choice cannot by any stretch of to the Aboriginal communities of Morn­ the imagination be likened to the apartheid ington Island and Aurukun." that is imposed on a black majority by a The Minister completely misled this Parlia­ white minority in South Africa. For Mr. ment in that statement and, as a matter of Porter even to suggest such an association principle, he should resign from the Ministry or thought is highly suspect. forthwith. The policy of outstations has been adopted in many church communities throughout I refer to an article that appeared in the Queensland, and, in fact, throughout Medical Journal of Australia, the authors Australia. The famous Lutheran Aboriginal of which were Drs. Jose and Welsh. They Mission at Hermannsburg is one such reported that there was no evidence of community. In practical terms, this has nutritional brain damage at Aurukun. They meant that, when a family decides to turn praised the work of a couple of nursing sis­ its back on our type of society, with its ters who had fed expectant mothers with aspects foreign to Aboriginal culture, with protein and vitamins, but when they com­ its different structures of authority and pared the settlement with State-administered different sets of values, and with all the Local Government [26 APRIL 1978] (Aboriginal Lands) Bill 655

attendant problems of trying to escape from challenge him to conduct a democratic and tensions by drinking and consequently the properly run ballot throughou~ those com­ natural lawlessness that follows, it is incum­ munities to determine the attitudes of the bent upon us to respect the right of those people therein. people to return to their lands to lead the type of life that they desire. I notice that my time is running out. I want to conclude by referring to a matter I draw the attention of the Committee that has always been of great interest to to an article in "The Cairns Post" on 3 me and, I am sure, to other members in April 1978, written by a prominent Queens­ this Chamber and the people of Queensland. land journalist who had recently visited a We have always attempted to fathom why number of the outstations. The article makes the Premier is so vehemently opposed to interesting reading. It describes the com­ land rights for Aborigines, and why he munities as having an idyllic appearance and viciously attacks the North queensl~nd _Land as being extremely close-knit. It further Council. At the present time-this Is on describes the communities as self-support­ record and can be checked for authenticity ing, relying on fishing and the raising of -a project in Central Aust~alia. known beef cattle. In an interview, an Aboriginal as the Mereenie Oilfield is expenencmg great spokesman at Titree outstation took the difficulties. It is estimated that there are first opportunity ever to tell the Queensland some 60 000 000 barrels of oil available, people that the people there had never but the ;il ~annot be recovered until such seen the Queensland Minister or a State time as the Aboriginal Central Land Council Aboriginal Affairs officer, and that they of the Northern Territory advises the com­ objected strongly to unproved allegations panies that they can go ahead. The ~om­ that they were living in sickness and squalor. panies involved are Magellan (an Amencan­ I have that article here for the benefit of any honourable member who may wish to owned company), Transoil and Oilmin, com­ peruse it. panies in which the Premier of the State has vast and deep financial interests. That At the Peret community, Rex Wolmbang, would explain to the Committee and Queens­ spokesman for the people, said, "We have landers whv this action has been taken to been put down by the State and we want withdraw the rights of Aboriginal reserves to get out." and turn them into local authority areas. On 15 March this year, Mr. Porter visited The Premier obviously does not want to Aurukun in an attempt to persuade the take the chance of giving away 1 oz. of people that the Queensland Government was mineral wealth to the Aboriginal people in acting in their interests. those communities. The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honour­ The Opposition welcomes the debate on able member is making constant reference this Bill, and certainly will discuss it further to Mr. Porter. He should be referred to by at the second-reading stage. his ministerial rank. Mr. BERTONI (Mt. Isa) (10.33 p.m.): Mr. R . .J. GIBBS: The Minister for Abor­ The sun is beginning to shine once agam iginal and Island Affairs visited Aurukun and on the communities of Aurukun and Morn­ tried to persuade the people there that the ington Island. At long last there are rays Queensland Government was acting in their of hope, dignity and self-respect _for t~e interests. The people of Aurukun told him Aboriginal people. Now they can gmde their in no uncertain manner that they wanted no own destiny through self-management. part of the Queensland Government. In reply to a question at that meeting the Min­ Over the last few weeks the level of ister said- public debate on the take-over of these two "I don't know whether I can give any northern areas has left the majority of answer to any of that. It comes from the people in the dark and grasping for the heart very obviously. A great deal of it is truth. Over those weeks we have had ev~ry­ in line with what I have been trying to body and anybody making wild, pressunsed say, and I was deeply sorry to hear that and half-true statements, all claiming to the department is not liked, and I say have the solution to the Aboriginal prob­ again that if this indeed reflects the view lem. The media had a field day, with sen­ of the majority of the Aboriginal and sational headlines which left most Austral­ Islanders people in Queensland then we ians with the misconception that Aboriginal will have the Act repealed." people are curr~ntly being. deprived of som~­ thing that white Australians have. I still He further stated- have to hear what these differences are. "I can assure you if I so believed that Nobody is prepared to state these differences. the majority of people living in the reserves and the communities throughout Let us look at some statistics that make the State and the islands wanted to be interesting reading. In 1976 th~re were free of everything I'd free them. Take 132 789 Aborigines in Australia, with my word for it." app~oximately 39,000 in Queensland. That means that over one-third of the total The Minister knows the true feelings of these Aboriginal population lives in Queensland. people. He knows the feelings throughout The total funds for Aborigines in 1975-76 the other Aboriginal and Islander com­ amounted to more than $18,000,000, making munities throughout Queenslaud, and I about $1,399 for each and every Aborigine 656 Local Government [26 APRIL 1978] (Aboriginal Lands) Bill

compared with $437 for each other Austral­ Mr. BERTONI: I am not reading my ian. In addition, the Aboriginal people are speech, Mr. Hewitt; I am referring to claimants under the social welfare pro­ copious notes compiled by myself. gramme. Therefore this per capita sum is As I was saying-these do-gooders claim additional to any State and Federal grants to have the solution to these very complex to indigenous people. problems confronting Aborigines. If one looks at the employment figures Mr. K. J. Hooper interjected. for 31 March 1977, one sees that Aurukun and Mornington Island are the worst of all Mr. FRAWLEY: I rise to a point of Aboriginal missions. Of the 764 people at order. I draw your attention, Mr. Hewitt, Aurukun, 35 were employed; of the 750 at to the fact that the member for Archerfield Mornington Island, 71 were employed. is interjecting from his incorrect place. Opposition Members interjected. Mr. K. J. HOOPER: With respect, Mr. Mr. BERTONI: I wrote my own speech, Hewitt, I am acting Leader of the Opposition. Mr. Hewitt, unlike the honourable member The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honourable for Wolston, who picked up his speech from member for Mt. Isa will proceed. the Trades Hall. It is obvious from his remarks that he visited one or two missions Mr. BERTONI: There are many problems in the area and now professes to know all associated with the Aborigines at Morning­ about Aboriginal affairs and to have a solu­ ton Island and Aurukun. tion to their problems. I shall deal with him later on and prove how little he knows about Mr. K. J. Hooper interjected. the Aboriginal people. The CHAIRMAN: Order! If persistent It can be seen that Social Security cheques interjection does not cease, I will invoke constitute the main source of income for the provisions of Standing Order No. 123A. most of the people in these areas. I clarify these statements by saying that I do not Mr. BERTONI: Thank you, Mr. Hewitt. begrudge these people one cent, as they First there was the sudden devastation of are indeed in need of assistance. Let us Mornington Island and Burketown by cyclone not be misguided by the media and do­ "Ted", which shocked everybody in Aus­ gooders who indicate that Aborigines are tralia. Immediately politicians scurried to downtrodden, unloved and robbed of their the area. rights. All those people have done is pit Mr. K. J. Hooper interjected. white against black. They have lit a slow­ burning fuse to the detriment of the Abori­ The CHAIRMAN: Order! I would hate gines. the acting Leader of the Opposition to be the first to feel my wrath. Mr. Wright: Are you reading your speech? Mr. BERTONI: As I was saying-immedi­ The CHAIRMAN: Order! The Chamber ately there was a scurry of politicians as will come to order. well as officials and outsiders to Mornington Mr. BERTONI: It is quite obvious, Mr. Island, all battling for media cover, all Hewitt, that Opposition members intend to demanding immediate action as if the dam­ disrupt the Committee. age could be repaired overnight by the wave of a magic wand. Mr. Wright: He's reading his speech. Mr. Jones interjected. The CHAIRMAN: Order! If the honour­ able member for Rockhampton wishes to Mr. BERTONI: I will read from a letter bring anything to my notice, he should do from Mornington Island, and the contents so in the correct manner. Until then the will shock the honourable member. debate will proceed. On the Sunday night of cyclone "Ted" I immediately contacted the Premier, who Mr. BERTONI: Thank you, Mr. Hewitt. readily agreed to fly to Mornington Island I was about to say that the do-gooders seem and Burketown. The airstrip, however, was to show a complete lack of understanding closed and we had to visit the place two for the Aborigines. Usually they pay only days later after the Department of Civil one or two visits to an Aboriginal area. Aviation reopened it. The damage was extensive and the State Emergency Service Mr. WRIGHT: I rise to a point of order. moved in immediately to provide temporary I ask for your ruling, Mr. Hewitt. Pre­ viously you ruled that a member of the assistance to the people. Opposition was reading his speech. I notice Mr. D'ARCY: I rise to a point of order. that the member for Mt. Isa is reading his. It is quite obvious, Mr. Hewitt, that the I ask you to rule whether or not this is member for Mt. Isa is reading his speech, permissible. word for word. I ask you to rule on it. The CHAIRMAN: Order! My ruling is The CHAIRMAN: Order! I am of the the same as the one I gave earlier. If the opinion that the honourable member is sub­ honourable member for Mt. Isa is reading stantially reading his speech. I ask him his speech, I ask him to desist. to desist. Local Government [26 APRIL 1978] (Aboriginal Lands) Bill 657

Mr. BERTONI: Every word of this has We discussed each design with the members been written by me. These are only copious of the Aboriginal council and asked them to notes for my record. pick the designs that suited them. After some discussions we left them to go to talk The CHAIRMAN: Order! It is not a to the people and they came back to the question of whether the honourable member meeting about two hours later with four wrote it in advance. It is a question of different designs that they said they would whether or not he is reading it in the need. Those four designs were then let out chamber. Dependence on notes is permitted; to contract. It is important to remember reading of speeches is not. that we discussed the needs of the Abo­ riginal community and those of the people Mr. BERTONI: That is fair enough. with the council. The Uniting Church was represented by Mr. Gordon Coutts, who Congratulations should go to Roger Petit, agreed to the terms and conditions we laid the manager, and to the members of the down. Never on any occasion during cyclone Aboriginal council for their courage and "Ted" negotiations was the church not kept understanding during cyclone "Ted". The informed, and never did it disagree with problems in this area were enormous. There what we were doing. It was proposed that was nearly complete devastation. One must initialJy 44 homes would be built at a cost certainly congratulate them on the restora­ of about $2,000,000 or $3,000,000. This was tion of essential health services in this area. to be a start in training Aboriginal people The housing problem was overcome to build homes. The remainder were to be immediately by the provision of lean-to built when the 44 homes were completed. tents. Inspector Vaudin of the Mt. Isa police and Sergeant Brian Johnston of At alJ times the Queensland Government Burketown worked many hours to make sure kept the employment of Aborigines in the that the people of Mornington Island and work-force welJ in mind. The Queensland Burketown were completely safe and Government believes in giving Aborigines covered during cyclone "Ted". a hand-up, not a hand-out. I believe that I come now to the problem of replacing the Aborigines' dream is to be self-supporting the homes at Mornington Island about through their own labour. which this Government has often been The introduction of this Bill is the start criticised. I make it quite clear that the to giving Aborigines their own rights, dignity Government did everything in its power to and hope for the future. They will get rights assist the people of Mornington Island. equal to those enjoyed by any person in Under the cyclone disaster legislation the Australia, and they wiJJ accept responsibility Queensland Government has to spend the for their own destiny. first $2,000,000. The Federal Government picks up the tab for expenditure above that During the Minister's speech, I noted that figure. We contacted the Federal Govern­ the honourable member for Wolston said ment immediately to discuss the replacement that he contacted various areas throughout of houses on Mornington Island. The Federal the State and toured the Northern Territory. Government only wanted to give us finance He was trying to indicate to the Committee to replace the tents and shacks that were the various problems Aborigines experience blown down. It was the Queensland Govern­ in the Northern Territory. ment that stood its ground and refused to accept money solely for the rebuilding of Let me quote from a document I have shacks and lean-to accommodation. The received from somebody who should know Queensland Government eventually got the officially what happens in the Northern Federal Government to agree to upgrading Territory. It refers to the failure at Waddy the new homes in the area. That is how the Creek and Papunya to start questioning people of Mornington Island eventually got whether the whole thing was going in the the 122 new homes allocated. right direction. In reference to an article on 8 February in the "Australian" he said In June 1977 a meeting was held at that the D.A.A. had been sent a telegram Mornington Island. I shalJ now read from to say that the Aboriginals were starving. my notes because I wish to name each of At Papunya only three out of 15 teachers the persons present. There was the then were left and 36 houses were vacant and Minister for Aboriginal and Islanders locked. A Papunya official said that the Advancement (Honourable C. A. Wharton), fact that we have failed has proved that we Mr. Pat Killoran (Director of the Depart­ have succeeded. We have dragged the Abor­ ment of Aboriginal and Island Affairs), iginals down to the lowest level and now Gordon Coutts, representing the Uniting the only way is up. Church, Kevin Oliver representing the Works Department, Noel Platzer, Roger Fancy that! First we drag the Aborigines Petit (the manager), Ron Lyons and Chris to the lowest level so that the only way they Symes, both representing the Mornington can go is up. That is what is happening Island people and the Aboriginal council, in the Northern Territory. If that ever hap­ which included Larry Langly, Albert Wilson, pens in Queensland we should be kicked out Roger KelJy and Prince Escott. They were of office. This is what the Labor Party presented with seven different home designs reckons we should do to the Aborigines in which were thought would suit their needs. this area. 658 Local Government [26 APRIL 1978] (Aboriginal Lands) Bill

I think the Minister for Local Government and saw me. She landed on Mornington (the Honourable Russ Hinze) the Minister Island without a permit. That is exactly for Aboriginal and Island Affairs (the what they are telling the people in my area. Honourable Charles Porter) and the Director They are telling these people anything at all of the Department of Aboriginal and in order to build hatred against anyone who Islanders Advancement (Mr. Pat Killoran) favours the Queensland Government. should be congratulated, at long last, for giving these people some future. It was said that there was tremendous resistance to the visit by the Minister for The co-ordinating and advisory committee Aboriginal and Island Affairs to Mornington to this council is a must. These people have Island. May I inform the Committee that suddenly been given the responsibility for representatives of the Federal Department self-management. Can anybody imagine a of Aboriginal Affairs had gone into council sitting around a table and making that area some weeks before and told rules and decisions under the Local Govern­ the people that, if they voted to go to the ment Act to suit and to govern their own Federal Government, they would get more areas? They would not have the faintest trucks, more houses and more money. This idea which way they were going. They would was the theory they were putting forward not know which way to turn, so the advisory in these areas solely for the purpose of council is a must if the shire council is to getting the Aborigines to go over to Federal function properly. I am sure that the advisory Government control. If they had succeeded, council, which will consist of the Minister goodness knows what would have happened, or his appointee from the Local Government because the Canberra boys would be taking Department, an appointee from the Depart­ control of the whole situation. ment of Aboriginal and Islanders Advance­ ment and an appointee from the Common­ Mr. K. J. Hooper interjeced. wealth Department of Aboriginal Affairs will certainly guide the shire council in its Mr. BERTONI: I do not think I will proper role as a local government. worry about that. If we take a look at the election figures for Mornington Island, we The other areas that we regulate include see that they are very interesting. It is put the presence of people who may reside on forward that the Labor Partv is the friend these areas. This is extremely important of the Aboriginal people. f can tell this because at the moment we have a flow of House that the Aboriginal people do not do-gooders, has-beens, visitors and no-hopers trust the Labor Party. In 1969, \\hen Alec passing through Mornington Island and Inch was the member for the area, the Aurukun, all making statements and all Labor Party received 13 per cent of the stirring the Aborigines to certain ways of vote. In 1972, the pro-Labor year when thinki11g. This has to stop because they Gough Whitlam flew into office in Canberra, have no responsibility whatsoever to these Labor received 30 per cent of the vote. Aborigines. Their prime purpose is to stir the In 1974, when I came on the scene, Labor Aborigines up against the people of Queens­ received only 10 per cent. In 1977 at Morn­ land. Their complete purpose is to set ington Island it received 4.6 per cent of the the Aboriginal communities against the vote. That shows what the people on Morn­ Queensland Government so that they can be ington Island think of the Labor Party. All controlled by the Federal Government. I can I can say is that when the sun sets and see no difference at all between control by the dust settles on these communities, when the Federal Government and control by this the do-gooders and the agitators all go back State, which knows what it is doing regard­ to the cities, and when the media have long ing Aboriginal Affairs. lost their interest in these communities, then At this point in time there are only 7,000 and only then will peace and tranquility Aborigines in the State of Victoria, accord­ come back to these islands. ing to the statistics I have already quoted from, yet we seem to have a whole drag Mr. PREST (Port Curtis) (10.52 p.m.): of Victorians taking up executive positions It was very pleasing to hear the Minister, and becoming liaison officers. The officials when introducing this Bill, recognise the of the D.A.A. and the legal aid services work that had been done over past years by spend all of their time as agitators instead the Presbyterian and Uniting Churches for of doing their work. these Aboriginal communities, but it must have been an awful kick in the stomach I have here a report that came to me the for those two church organisations to learn other day from a person who had lived on that they had lost their authority in these Mornington Island for 30 years as a teacher. communities. Because I know what I am Recently she flew up there. In the plane talking about, I do not need notes to make were Mr. Kyle, who is the president of the my speech, and I am sure that I will be legal aid service, Mr. John Ormonde, who able to make some contribution to this is in control of the Department of Aborigi­ debate, which will be of benefit to the nal Affairs in Mt. Isa, and Alfie Clay. They Aboriginal people. told this woman who had lived on the island for 30 years that she needed a permit to \Ve have just heard the honourable mem­ get to Mornington Island. What rubbish! ber for Mt. Isa say that he does not think She was so disturbed about it that she came that the Aboriginal people would be able Local Government [26 APRIL 1978] (Aboriginal Lands) Bill 659 to run their own affairs and what a great elsewhere that indigenous people, unfairly thing it is that the Government is appointing dispossessed, should be entitled to a three advisers to assist them. share of the Crown rights in the form of mineral leases and royalties on land which A Government Member interjected. traditionally belongs to a reasonably identi­ fiable indigenous community which has the Mr. PREST: I quite agree with that; I right to become integrated into the general don't think the introduction of this Bill has population of their own chosen right and been well timed. I think it is only a their own chosen manner? I believe that stopgap measure to end the bickering of the Aboriginal people are entitled to some the past \veeks and months between the rewards from minerals on land that has tra­ State and the Federal Governments in rela­ ditionally been theirs; but I also believe tion to the Aborigines at Aurukun and that those people who at present live on Mornington Island. the outstations on these reserves will be I am becoming concerned about the shifted into the local authorities. I am quite certain that this is for the benefit number of local authorities that we have of the mining companies only. I again in Queensland today. There are 131 local ask a question: have Federal Government authorities, with another two being intro­ inquiries and experts generally, including an duced tonight and a further one in the very anthropologist, found that Aborigines' health near future. We should not be creating improves when outstations are set up giv­ more local councils. Instead, we should ing greater access to traditional foods, result­ be establishing regional government, giving ing in fewer hygiene problems and less the smaller local authorities greater viability. social disintegration? If that is found to We would then be able to appoint, or allow be true, these Aboriginal people should not the regional governments to appoint, people be herded into the general area of a local as paid rather than as honorary shire authority to make way for mining but should councillors or as aldermen, as the case may be entitled to come in at their own rate be. and in their own time. I quite agree that the Aborigines are entitled to determine their own destiny and The CHAIRMAN: Order: I hope the hon­ entitled to run their own affairs, as is every ourable member is not reading his speech. other person in this community. I note from the size of the proposed local authorities Mr. PREST: Just a few words. I am that there are approximately 760 residents quite certain I would not have to. I have on the Aurukun Reserve and about the same questions written here that I am asking, number on Mornington Island. I have and that is the only thing I am reading. looked at the records, and the only local I am certain that we are a little bit further authority I can find with a comparable advanced than members of the Liberal and population is the Tambo Shire, which covers National Parties and we do not have to read 2 our speeches. an area of 10 300 km • With 251 dwel­ lings and an estimated population of 700, As I said, if this allegation is true it is the shire has rateable property values of an injustice to the Aborigines and is some­ $19,000 urban, $1,292,000 rural and $36,000 thing that should be looked into. exempt. This gives a total rateable pro­ There are already 131 local authorities in perty valuation of $1,340,000. However, the Queensland. About 760 people live on each Aurukun and Mornington Island councils of these two reserves. In one instance only will cover Crown land. Therefore, I can­ 35 people are working; in the other, about not see any property on which they could 70 are working. I visited Mornington Island levy rates in order to assist with the adminis­ about 12 months ago and I am verv doubt­ tration and financing of these two local ful whether I saw that number of people authorities. gainfully employed there. I am quite certain that the Aboriginal people will be the losers in this take-over I am certain that, under the scheme battle between the State and Federal Gov­ proposed by the Minister, these local ernments. The mining companies are sit­ authorities will not be able to work ting on the fence. The honourable mem­ effectively. They will have trouble financing ber for Wolston said that the Premier is their activities and in providing services up to his eyeballs in this take-over. He equal to those provided in other local stands to gain a lot if he can get the authority areas. Aboriginal people off these reserves. This Mr. Hinze: Are you opposed to the Bill will give him the opportunity of convert­ or are you supporting it? ' ing the reserves to Crown land and the Aboriginal people will then lose the small Mr. PREST: No, I am not opposed to it. mineral rights to which they were so much I am supporting it. However, I am looking entitled. at the problems that will flow from the proposed Bill. Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: Do you believe in mineral rights for Aborigines? Mr. Hinze: Is this the official attitude of the A.L.P.? Mr. PREST: Yes, I do, up to a point. Does this Government recognise the prin­ Mr. PREST: I am speaking on my own ciple established in North America and behalf, as member for Port Curtis. 660 Local Government [26 APRIL 1978] (Aboriginal Lands) Bill

Mr. Hinze: Is this the official attitude of Mr. PREST: They are entitled to some the A.L.P.? Are you supporting the Bill or mineral rights from the land that has opposing it? traditionally been theirs.

Mr. PREST: Of course we are supporting Mr. Lee: "Yes" or "No"? the Bill, yes. But let us see how the pro­ visions of the Bill are to be administered; Mr. PREST: I think that the Minister is that is the most important point. just trying to draw a red herring across the trail. He would be better employed out in Members of the Opposition could not take the back room. note of every point made by the Minister Will the authorities be responsible for the in his introductory speech. Unfortunately, fares and expenses incurred in bringing the we are not allowed to see the Bill before it three advisers from Brisbane or Canberra to is introduced in this Chamber, but we can Mornington Island or Aurukun when local make assumptions. The Minister said that authority meetings are held? approximately three or four of the present councillors would be retained, plus three As I said previously, finance will deter­ advisers. I am led to believe that these local mine whether these local authorities will be authorities, as shire councils, will have to able to work. There will have to be grants meet at least every three months. In fact, to enable them to manage their own affairs. they should meet monthly. I should like to The report indicates that today local author­ know how many people on these local Ities have a loans liability of approximately authorities will actually have a say in $900,000,000. That is a huge amount, and running them. Will the three advisers here now we are setting up two more local appointed by the Government have any authorities which will have no power to power to determine what shall be done in charge rates and no idea of how they will either of the local authorities? I again ask: obtain revenue. will the State make advisers available to Mr. Bertoni: Do you think we should cut ensure that Aborigines are trained in adminis­ off grants to those shires? tration and able to employ competent council officers? Mr. PREST: No, I don't. I have a ques­ Mr. Tenni: You are reading your speech. tion here about that. I want to know whether these local authorities will have Mr. PREST: I am not reading it. I have autonomy in framing their own budgets and questions written down. raising loans. If so, by what means will they raise funds to meet interest and redemption When that is done, will they have complete payments? It may be that the State and control? Federal Governments will make grants. If I was interested to hear the Minister say so, what relationship will the State funding that a shire clerk will be appointed, if one of the local authority councils bear to funds is available, for each local authority. Until provided by the State to the former Presby­ one is available, who will administer the terian and Uniting Church administrations? affairs of the local authorities? Because of What conditions will be imposed on the local the responsibility that a town clerk or a authorities to qualify them for such funding? shire clerk carries, he must be qualified. Tonight the Minister said that the Grants I also ask the Minister: what other staff Commission may have to come into this in may each of these local authorities have? a big way. Will the funding formula be dis­ After reading the report of the Health closed to the councils, and will that formula Department for the year ended 30 June specify what relationship the State funding 1977, I think that the appointment of a will have to possible Federal Government health officer is especially important at funding arrangements? After all, councils Aurukun and at Mornington Island. They today are very dependent on the Grants will no longer be only small areas within the Commission. All local authorities are in fin­ existing boundaries of the reserves; they will ancial trouble, without bringing into the become a little bigger. arena another two local authorities that will have to depend very heavily on grants. It If roads are to be built, engineers and must be in the mind of the Minister for road gangs will be needed. If the people of Local Government and Main Roads and the Aurukun and Mornington Island are to be Premier to make a big part of the Grants given amenities equal to those provided by Commission money available to these two other local authorities in the State, what local authorities. After all, 70 per cent of other staff will be employed by the local the Grants Commission money is paid out on authorities? a needs basis. These two authorities will Mr. Lee: Do you believe that Aborigines have no way of raising finance, so they must should have different land rights from white be assisted by way of grants, and their needs Australians? in order to keep them in line with other authorities would be much greater than Mr. PREST: These people have been those of any other local authority in the living on these lands. State. Local authorities play a very import­ ant part. They must ensure that health and Mr. Lee: Just answer "Yes" or "No". cleansing problems do not arise. Local Government [26 APRIL 1978] (Aboriginal Lands) Bill 661

The Minister referred to the Building Act. Hon. C. R. PORTER (Toowong-Minister It might be a little out of this world to for Aboriginal and Island Affairs) (11.13 strictly apply the provisions of the Building p.m.): It gives me a great deal of pleasure Act to Mornington Island and Aurukun. to be able to support my colleague the Although the structures and dwellings in Minister for Local Government and Main both of those local authority areas must be Roads in the presentation of the Bill. It is soundly constructed, I do not consider that after all one in which I have more than just many of the provisions of that Act should a passing interest. I am delighted to know, be applied to them. Not only the buildings too, that, despite the crude noises that have to be considered. Roads, water, libraries members of ,the Opposition feel impelled to and so many other facilities required for make-as they do on all occasions such as local communities must be provided at this-they are going to support the Bill. Aurukun and Mornington Island. More­ over, parks, recreation areas and sporting The Minister has said that the Bill is a fields have to be established for these people, remarkable innovation. There is no doubt who, as we know, have lots of leisure time. that what we are establishing by it can be To provide these facilities, however, the two ,the great and noble experiment that the local authorities will need large sums of Prime Minister in Federal Parliament last money and a good deal of assistance from week said he believed it would be. Equally both the State and the Federal Government. we have to recognise ,that it will not be easily achieved, and anyone with common Having heard the Minister's introductory sense will recognise that. speech, I am deeply concerned to learn that no-one will be able to enter the two local What we are creating is what we would authority areas without first obtaining per­ hope all the Aboriginal and Islander com­ mission to do so. This is something new in munities throughout the State will even­ local government, although it is not new in tually become. I personally am apprehensive relation to Aboriginal reserves. However, the that we are doing this several years too early. areas will no longer be Aboriginal reserves; I want to make it quite plain that this rather will ,they be local authority areas. Government has always looked for eventual The Bill continues to segregate coloured self-government when the present community people from white, and I am quite certain centres in the reserves become prosperous that it will go further. It may even exclude country townships in the mainstream of our white people who live permanently in the community. That is the anticipation. Every­ area, such as teachers and public servants, body knows, however, that between the from recording a vote at local authority elec­ anticipation and the realisation there can be tions. If that is so, the Bill is discriminating quite a considerable gap. not against the coloured race but against The Acts under which the Department of white people. I believe every person is Aboriginal and Islanders Advancement works entitled to a vote at a local authority election, are totally in the hands of the people for provided he or she is on the roll. whom they work. Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: Have a look at the The honourable member for Wolston Bill. quoted something that he claimed I said at Mr. PREST: I sincerely hope that the Aurukun, I think it was. Probably this was indication given by the Minister is correct, taken from some clandestine tape-recording but I doubt it. that some pleasant church person made with­ I would like the Minister introducing the out telling me that he was making it. I see Bill to tell me whether public servants or nothing wrong with the words I used. other white persons living in the areas will be Without doubt the Acts I administer will able to offer themselves for a position on be altered as the people themselves want the local authorities at the 1979 local them altered. If the people themselves say authority elections. that they want them abolished we will abolish Generally speaking, I would say that we them. We work totally in accordance with have nothing to fear from the Bill. However, the consensus of the Aboriginal people in we do not want to see discrimination against the State, but we do not believe in making either coloured people or white people. We fish of one, flesh of another and so ..Qn. believe everyone is equal and must be given The people operate as they themselves want equal opportunity. As I have said, I have to under the Acts. The Acts are under visited Mornington Island. review at present. In the later session of Parliament we will have an opportunity to Mr. Moore: You should have stayed there. debate whatever changes the people them­ selves want in those Acts. Mr. PREST: If I had stayed there I would not have to look at fellows like the honour­ There is no question that the overwhelming able member. consensus of all the people in the com­ Before I visited Mornington Island I munities, whether they be at Aurukun, thought that everything there was lovely, Mornington Island or elsewhere, is that they want some degree df protection as a buffer that there were trees and beautiful buildings against the outside world, a world that can everywhere. However, what a surprise it was be very cruel, ruthless and predatory. None to see what existed there. of them want to be thrown to the vultures, (Time expired.) who, undoubtedly, would descend quite 662 Local Government [26 APRIL 1978] (Aboriginal Lands) Bill

rapidly on them. We all realise that change and so on. I might mention that the other is inevitable-and change there has been in day somebody said-it may have been the the past 20 years. There will be more honourable member for Cook-that there change. It is one thing to make a sensible was nothing wrong with Mr. Miller or Mr. adaptation to rational winds of change, but Grogan. He will be interested to know that it is another thing when people go round these two gentlemen are soon to leave with deliberately whistling up a hurricane to somebody from the Waterside Workers' blow everything away. That is not change: Federation for China, Russia and Cuba. The that is disaster. purpose of their trip is to try to secure I make the point that not one other Abor­ Cuban intervention in this country on behalf iginal community in Queensland or in the of what they believe is the Aborigines' Torres Strait area wants to be under Federal concern. Government control or wants to be involved Opposition Members interjected. in this experiment in local government. Nobody can produce one shred of real evid­ Mr. PORTER: Let us see if it happens. ence to suggest the contrary. A few pseudo petitions are going around signed by Mr. When one remembers that it is Cuban Miller, Mr. Grogan and others in the wet mercenaries who are being used by Russia canteen, but for every one of those that to cause so much trouble in this world, it is have been produced the local council and a dreadful thing to think that these people the community chairman have informed us will go so far to use the Aborigines as that they do not represent the viewpoint political pawns. There is no doubt whatever of any sizeable section of the community. that the great majority of people in this State Not one community wishes to change from believe that far from not going far enough State to Federal jurisdiction. Not one with this legislation the great majority may wants to become a local government, which wonder whether we have not gone too far. we are now required to do with Aurukun A great deal of emotion has been whipped and Mornington Island. That is why I say up in this area over recent weeks and in the legislation may be a few years too soon. that emotional atmosphere a lot of people It will not be easy to run a sophisticated have been pushing for action which is not operation like a local authority that will be in the best interests of the Aboriginal or spending about $500,000 a year, with the Islander people. We have to consider their Auditor-General closely scrutinising every­ best interests. We also have to consider thing to make sure that the money is what in fact they truly want as apart from spent properly. Even with the built-in assist­ what people tell them they should express ance of the advisory and co-ordinating com­ as their wants, and there has been a lot of mittee, which the Minister mentioned, a iot that. of hard work, scrupulous care and continuing I have had an A.B.C. man tell me that vigilance will be required to make sure that journalists have been indicating to the people, the local self-governments at Aurukun and "This is what you have got to say. These Mornington Island work efficiently and are the questions you should ask. This is properly. what you should talk about." If that is I am well aware that in some quarters­ being done to these people, it is a very sad although the Opposition seems very coy and sorry commentary on the morals of about suggesting it is part of our attitude­ politicians and media people who try to do it. there will be a feeling that this Bill pro­ It might be interesting for people to know vides only a pale shadow of what self-gov­ that listening in the gallery at the moment ernment should mean. The honourable mem­ is a delegation from the Aurukun com­ ber for Port Curtis suggested that there munity. should be land rights, mineral rights and so on. Mr. Scott: From where?

Mr. Scott: Are you speaking against the Mr. PORTER: From the Aurukun com­ Bill? munity. Every one of them is an Aurukun person. Some now live in Weipa. Every Mr. PORTER: Yes, of course I speak one of them is an Aurukun-born person and against land rights and mineral rights. the majority of them live in Aurukun. All Without a shadow of a doubt I believe of them state that they believe quite firmly that is the worst that could be done to from their own experiences that the majority Aboriginal people in this country. If any­ of people at Aurukun have not been given body wants to set them aside, or apart from a chance to express their true views and white people, believing that that will not most certainly that their true views are not create a backlash with damaging effects in that they want to go from State control to the years to come, I suggest he is not only the Commonwealth. We get tremendous stupid but inhuman and cruel to the A'bor­ expressions of fury from honourable gentle­ iginal people. men opposite when an Aboriginal person I make the pojnt that many critics will comes down from Aurukun and suggests that say it is unfortunate that this legislation there is in fact another viewpoint from the does not go far enough, but those critics one that has been so enthusiastically and sedu­ come largely from the radical Left-the lously promoted over recent weeks by every Nixons, the Millers, the Grogans, the Russells Left-wing radical, by every Labor politician Local Government [26 APRIL 1978] (Aboriginal Lands) Bill 663 and by, I would say, about 95 per cent of long-term interests of our indigenous people the media of Australia. But it turns out for them to remain always apart, always there is another viewpoint and it is good that separate, always alien in their own land? it should be known. I think this is a dreadful thing to suggest, All of this piped-up appearance that we and a proper thing undoubtedly is to help have had of one single attitude has been them to become part of the total community. orchestrated by a very few people indeed Keeping them apart is an experiment that and all the emotional messages and state­ has been tried in other countries-America, ments have been written out for the people. Canada, Japan and other places where there I have had telegrams couched in terms which are native peoples-with disastrous results, would be impossible for those people to use. for we seem to have no intention, at least I had a telegram referring to me as "Porter" as far as the radical Left is concerned, which and Mr. Killoran as "Killoran". Those is what the A.L.P. seems to have become people are innately too well-mannered and these days, of learning the lessons of history courteous ever to do that. That was some­ or the lessons that other nations have had thing perhaps done by the honourable mem­ to learn to their cost. ber for Cook, who slimed his way into We in this Government-and the Bill Aurukun the day before I got there and tonight demonstrates it-are deeply concerned slimed his way back again the day after in with the well-being of these people both order to gain the maximum political now and into the future. They are our advantage. people. They are people with very real Mr. SCOTT: I rise to a point of order. problems. They have got very pressing needs The member of Parliament for the area and they want help and we are going to does not have to slime his way in there, as give them that help and we will make sure that slanderous gentleman-- that they are able to move, as I say, into the total society when the time comes for THE TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. them to be able to assume that full role. Miller): Order! Has the honourable mem­ But until then we will give them the help ber a point of order? I ask him to state his and we will give them the protection that point of order. they need. There is one other matter I want to touch Mr. SCOTT: In terms of the Act I have on very quickly because it has been raised every right to go onto Aurukun whenever tonight, too. This legislation happened too I like. fast for me, but it is required because of THE TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: That Federal intervention in this matter, and it is not a point of order. The honourable wa~ a Federal intervention that was so member is not stating a point of order. sedulously sought by the Uniting Church. Now it is told to us in this Assembly that Mr. SCOTT: I object to the use of the the Federal Government has the right to word "slimed", because I am the member interfere because of a referendum that was for that area. held in 1967. It is high time that the nonsense and the solemn absurdities that THE TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: have been talked about regarding this refer­ Order! I ask the Minister to withdraw the endum were laid to rest. I know the real word "slimed". facts of that referendum, and nobody knows them better than I do because I happen Mr. PORTER: If the honourable mem­ to be one of only three people who are ber objects to the word "slimed" I with­ capable of giving the real facts. There were draw it and say that he oozed hi; way in. four, but one of them is dead. He was in there the day before we got there in order to make the maximum problems In 1965 as general secretary of the Liberal and he was there the day after we were Party and part of what was called the there, in order to make the maximum prob­ planning committee, I was deputed with the lems. He was there to exploit the people general secretaries of New South Wales and politically. That is what he set out to do. Victoria-and the general secretary of New South Wales is the present Senator Carrick, Our philosophy in this regard is clear and a member of the Federal Cabinet and then unequivocal. We believe that the indigenous a staunch federalist, as I have remained, peoples must be helped over a period of time but I don't think he will deny the truth to become a part of the total community. of what I am saying-to go to Mr. Menzies, That is our philosophy. This is what we the then Prime Minister, to persuade him practise. I am certain that nine people out of the desirability of a referendum to break of. 10 in Australia believe this is the proper thmg to do. The A.L.P. philosophy is to the nexus between the Senate and the House keep them separate and dependent. of Representatives. After a long day's argu­ ing he reluctantly agreed to do this. I have They are trying to form little enclaves of got to confess that his political judgment Aboriginal and Islander people-a sort of was better than mine because he did not minor version of Black Power. In doing so, want to do it and the electorate's judgment w~ether they intend to do it or not, they was better than mine because it turned it will sow the detestable seeds of apartheid. down. What we looked for was something Does anybody really believe it is in the best bland to go with the thing, the bait to put 664 Local Government [26 APRIL 1978] (Aboriginal Lands) Bill

on the hook, and we decided that this put as our policy and we will never accept Aboriginal question was the bland second it. Certainly we will fight it wherever it is question to go with the nexus question. raised. I can say without any fear of contradiction This measure comes as a result of that whatever, and I am sure Sir Robert Menzies long 14-hour conference we had a little over will recall the incident if he wants to make a week ago in Canberra to which my col­ a public statement about it, that that question league has referred. The proposals are was put up with no thought whatever that totally in line with what was required as a the Commonwealth Government would take result of that agreement. We know that over any of the control or powers from the the Federal Government would like to have State Government. a local government operation at Aurukun Mr. Houston: Maybe they say it now. and Mornington Island which is (how shall I say it?) more absolute in its powers than Mr. PORTER: The honourable member what is proposed, but the Queensland Gov­ for Bulimba says that maybe that is what ernment believes that it will take a great they think now. deal of help and assistance to make this work, and we cannot accept that these people Mr. R. J. Gibbs: You should be ashamed should be overloaded with responsibility of yourself. which it is unlikely they will be able to dis­ Mr. PORTER: Why should I be ashamed charge effectively. So equally it was asked of myself? At that stage what was done that the Federal Minister should have a veto was a bland question of removing an exclu­ power should the Local Government Minister sion from the Federal Constitution, the Com­ wish to dismiss the council. There is no monwealth's power to make laws for races veto power to State Governments in any and also to have them counted in the census. Federal legislation, and we cannot accept It was never ever put as a proposition for that in our legislation, in the areas of our the Commonwealth to take superior power sovereign operation, there should be veto in this area away from the States. I asked power for a Federal Minister. We have somebody earlier tonight did he know the provided for consultation, and we think question that was on the ballot-paper and that that is fair enough. he said he did not. This is the question that The Hill is a good Bill. It is a path that was on the ballot-paper-to alter the has interesting and enormous prospects and Constitution so as to omit certain words possibilities. I believe it is the path which relating to people of the Aboriginal race all the Aboriginal and Islander communities in any State so that Aborigines are to be will eventually tread one day. counted in reckoning the population. Now, (Time expired.) who wouldn't vote for that? Mr. FRAWLEY (Caboolture) (11.33 p.m.): Of course, there was an overwhelming I would like to make a few brief comments majority and there is no suggestion in that on this Bill because I have had some experi­ whatever that people were giving powers ence mixing with Aboriginal people. This exercised by a State to the Commonwealth. Bill known as the Local Government (Abor­ In fact, the official "Yes" case, which was iginal Lands) Bill is, I think, a genuine effort prepared by all parties-the party opposite by the Queensand Government to express as well as my parties-said this- its concern for the Aboriginal people but, "This would not mean that the States like the Minister for Aboriginal and Island would automatically lose their existing Affairs, I have some concern about it. I powers." have a feeling that it was introduced a little Hear it! This is the argument given to people bit too soon. I think it would have been why they should vote "Yes". It continued- far better if we could have introduced it "What is intended is that the National later on, as I believe was originally intended, Parliament could make laws, if it thought but we are doing it now. fit, relating to Aboriginals-as it can about For many years there have been many many other matters on which the States groups of people whingeing and crying about also have power to legislate. The Com­ the rights of Aborigines, and now we are monwealth's object will be to co-operate going to give them some rights. We are with the States to ensure that together we going to give them the right to run Morn­ act in the best interests of the Aboriginal ington Island and Aurukun in the same way people of Australia." as all other local authorities are run in That was the case that the people of Queensland. Mr. Derek Kyle, the president Australia voted on, not what everybody tries of the Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders to pretend today-the straight-out transfer Legal Service, has been quoted as saying of power from the State scene to the Federal that the State Government could intimidate scene. This is what the Federal people like Aborigines into not asking for self­ to pretend, and this is what the Labor Party management. I think this Bill gives the lie likes to pretend because its policy is to set to that statement by Mr. Kyle. up enclaves in the various States to separate As local authorities, both Mornington black and white in order to have future Island and Aurukun will be subject to audit causes for trouble and dissension between under the control of the Auditor-General. peoples. It is not our policy; it was never Perhaps we will find in the future that it Local Government [26 APRIL 1978] (Aboriginal Lands) Bill 665

will not cost quite as much to run these Caboolture State Primary School. I could two communities as it has in the past because not get him a lousy $5.60 from any Govern­ there will now be a very strict method of ment department, State or Federal, or even accounting required. For years no account­ from the Blind Recreation Club, to pay for ing has been made to the State and Federal his son's books. Yet if that man had had Governments of the money that has been one drop of Aboriginal blood in his veins, given to run these communities. he would have received a fairly good educa­ For years Aborigines in Queensland have tion allowance for his child. been well treated, contrary to the claims of I am not opposed to these allowances. I all the groups that pretend to be concerned am simply showing how good the Govern­ for them but most of which are concerned ment has been to the Aborigines over the with feathering their own nests. The worst years. If a child is attending a secondary group of all is the Federal legal service for the school and he is in grade 8, 9 or 10, his Aborigines. Only recently in a country town parents receive $250 a year allowance for a publican was knocked up after hours by his books and his clothing. If he is in grade a group of Aborigines who wanted some 11 or 12, that amount is increased to $300 drink. He refused to give it to them. a year. They also receive $14 a fortnight Finally, they got him outside the hotel and to help keep him if he is in grade 8, 9 or belted him up properly. The Federal legal 10, and if he is in grade 11 or 12 that is service then flew two legal men to that increased to $20 a fortnight. In addition, if particular town to defend in court the he is in grade 8, 9 or 10, they receive an Aborigines who were charged with attacking additional $3 a fortnight pocket money, and the publican because he refused to give them for grades 11 or 12 $6 a fortnight pocket drink after hours. money. I am not opposed to any of that. I am simply pointing out some of the Mr. R. J. Gibbs: Why shouldn't they advantages enjoyed by Aboriginal people in defend them? the educational field. Mr. FRAWLEY: I am not complaining Mr. Moore: Which the whites don't get. about their defending them. I am saying that these Federal legal people are fostering dis­ Mr. FRAWLEY: Exactly; white people content amongst the Aborigines and feather­ do not get that. If there are any library ing their own nests. The more problems they fees, sporting fees, and so on, all those are can cause, the more they will get the paid by the Education Department. Aborigines to defend themselves on ridicu­ lous charges. Even when they know the Mr. Moore: Or extra funds if they need Aborigines are guilty, they still do their best them. to get the charges dismissed. Mr. FRAWLEY: That is right. To assist Mr. Houston: Who doesn't? They have with the cost, fares also are paid if a child a right to defend themselves. goes away to school. I am not opposed to Mr. FRAWLEY: I am not complaining that, either. about that. I ar.n. saying that they are taking If they are over 18 years of age and are these opportumties to feather their own doing adult education, Aborigines receive an nests. That is all they are interested in; they allowance of $57.27 a week. An additional are not interested in the rights of the $31.40 a week is paid if an Aborigine is Aborigines. married, and $7.50 a week for each child. That is a pretty good indication of the way Mr. Lester: You are referring to the in which we treat Aborigines. gentleman in Clermont, aren't you? If a man is living away from home, his Mr. FRAWLEY: That is right. For years wife and family have their fares paid to there have been problems with Aborigines in enable them to visit him at least once a Queensland who are not full-blooded-men year. I think that is a fairly good idea, and such as Denis Walker and Pastor Brady. It again it is an indication of what is being has always been Aborigines with some white done for Aborigines. blood in them who have caused trouble. I think it is about time that some of the Never have full-blooded Aborigines caused so-called Concerned Christians and the other trouble; it has always been the blokes with idiots who hang round the gates of Parlia­ some white blood in them. ment House-Women Against Rape and all The Aborigines are much better off now the other fools who are out there when they than they were years ago. They certainly are should be at home looking after their hus­ much better off than they were under the bands and children-instead of harping State Labor Government in 1956. They are about the Aboriginal problem, did a little getting cheap housing at low interest rates· bit for the blind people in this State and they get a subsidised rental; they get ~ made some representations on their behalf. loan for furniture at about 3t per cent for $3,000. They are also fairly well looked Mr. Fouras: Aren't they looking after after in the field of education. you, Mr. Frawley? Only recently in Caboolture I had to Mr. FRAWLEY: I am not blind. I can make representations on behalf of a blind see from here what colour the honourable person who has a child in grade 5 at the member is. 666 Local Government [26 APRIL 1978] (Aboriginal Lands) Bill

I am very interested in the co-ordinating have done that before. They are going to committee that is to be set up by the Gov­ be placed in the same position as an elected ernment to assist Aboriginal communities council, so they should have the fairly good to run their own affairs. As a former mem­ knowledge of a local government clerk to ber of a local authority-for the information assist them in their accounts and other of some of the new members, I point out matters. As the Ministers and other speakers that I was an alderman of the Redcliffe City have said, they could be making submissions Council for six years-! have some know­ to the Local Government Grants Commis­ ledge. sion. Mr. R. J. Gibbs: They still jest about you, Mr. R. J. Gibbs: Are you held in respect too. in your party? Mr. FRAWLEY: They may jest about me to the honourable member for Wolston. Mr. FRAWLEY: It is a pretty hard ques­ My brother and I, as aldermen on the Red­ tion to answer, but I think I would be, cliffe City Council, cleaned up some of the judging by the vote I get. land rackets that went on. One racket that Mr. R. J. Gibbs interjected. my brother stopped recently was one in which the honourable member for Wood­ Mr. FRAWLEY: I did not want to, but ridge was involved. Land was being sold in I will have to tell the honourable member Redcliffe that was well and truly under that in the plebiscite for Caboolture I won water. That land out at Rothwell was selling on the first ballot by 72 votes to 9. I would at $3,000 a block. The honourable member say that is a pretty good indication of the for Woodridge was involved in that before regard in which I was held by the National he got back into Parliament. Party in Caboolture. An Opposition Member: Who is that? The creation of two extra local authorities Mr. FRAWLEY: The honourable member is a good step. I am ashamed of the for Woodridge-the honourable member's honourable member for Port Curtis. I pot-smoking mate. Over in the "Bellevue" believe he was the mayor of Gladstone at building the smell of marijuana is driving one stage. He opposed the creation of the me crazy. I had to get Mr. Speaker to put two local authority areas. I am not going an exhaust fan in. to say that he opposed it because they were Aboriginal settlements. He even said that Opposition Members interjected. the number of local authorities in Queens­ land should be reduced from the present 131. Mr. FRAWLEY: Cop that. I think the Minister for Local Government The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. and Main Roads has said on more than one Miller): Order! occasion that local authorities will never be amalgamated unless the local authorities con­ Mr. Casey interjected. cerned request it. There is no danger of this Government's ever reducing the number Mr. FRAWLEY: Yes, I'll tip a bucket, in this State unless it is requested by the Casey. You just shut up. I'm just as tough local authorities themselves. If any local as you are. You call yourself-- authorities do want to amalagamate, I am The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: Order! quite certain the Minister would give them just consideration. Mr. FRAWLEY: You're just a damned Over the years this Government has been renegade. kind to Aborigines. The National Party endorsed an Aboriginal member, and he was An Opposition Member interjected. elected to this Parliament in 1974. With all Mr. FRAWLEY: You don't know what its concern for Aborigines, the Labor Party you're talking about. You're just a-- went to great pains to put him out. I know that the supporters of the present member The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: Order! for Cook went around Eric Deeral's elec­ torate saying, "You give Mr. Deeral three Mr. FRAWLEY: You're half black. votes and only give one vote to Mr. Scott. That is how we will get him in." It was a The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: Order! pretty good move. They said, "Three votes The honourable member for Caboolture will to Mr. Deeral and only one vote for Mr. address the Chair. Scott." Mr. FRAWLEY: The local government The Liberal Party nominated Senator clerks appointed to these two communities Bonner for a Senate vacancy. I go on should be men with a fairly good knowledge record as saying that that was the biggest of local government affairs. They should be mistake the Liberal Party ever made, and it men who hold local government clerk's was the biggest mistake this Government certificates because there are going to be ever made by appointing him to the vacancy. some problems there. It is obvious that the He is a great representative of the Aboriginal Mornington Island and Aurukun councils race! He is supposed to represent both have never had the experience of running a white and black people in the Senate, but he local authority. They cannot be expected to is down in Canberra crying about his black Co-operative and Other (26 APRIL 1978] Societies Act, &c., Bill 667

brothers all the time. When Eric Deeral credit facilities available under the rural sat in Parliament he showed he was con­ credits advance system. The society qualified cerned about both black and white people in because it was a co-operative and not less Cook. He was a true representative of the than 90 per cent of its issued capital was community. Senator Banner should pull up held by producer /supplier members. Now his socks and be a truly representative the Reserve Bank requires not less than 90 senator and not just a representative for the per cent of the voting power of co-operatives Aboriginal people. seeking seasonal finance to be held by In conclusion, I support the Bill because producer/supplier members. I believe the Minister, by introducing it, is certainly doing the right thing. It could be The Babinda society has 345 non-producer I a pilot scheme, and other Aboriginal settle­ supplier members, who hold $319,008 ments throughout Queensland also may want called-up capital of the society. On the other to take advantage of legislation of this type hand, the 261 producer /supplier members to become local authority areas. hold $4,345,290 called-up capital. The society is registered under the Co-operative and Progress reported. Other Societies Act 1967-1976, under which every member, whether a producer /supplier or not, is entitled to one vote. Thus the WITHDRAWAL OF NOTICE OF Babinda society will not now qualify for the MOTION finance which was previously available to it and will be forced to borrow on the open Co-OPERATIVE AND OTHER SociETIEs AcT market. Becauo.e of interest rates, in the AND ANOTHER ACT AMENDMENT BILL view of the management of the society this Hon. W. D. LICKISS (Mt. Coot-tha­ will place the society in financial difficulties. Minister for Justice and Attorney-General): (I 1.46 p.m.): I seek leave to withdraw the I would mention also that this is not the notice of motion given by me this morning in only society placed in this position because of regard to the Co-operative and Other the alteration of the Reserve Bank's require­ Societies Act and Another Act Amendment ments. An examination of the operations Bill. of other co-operative societies indicates that it would be more appropriate for some of (Leave granted.) them to be registered under the Primary Producers' Co-operative Associations Act. Similarly, a number of associations registered CO-OPERATIVE AND OTHER SOCIETIES under the Primary Producers' Co-operative ACT AND ANOTHER ACT Associations Act should be registered under AMENDMENT BILL the Co-operative and Other Societies Act. INITIATION Under the Primary Producers' Co-opera­ Hon. W. D. LICKISS (Mt. Coot-tha­ tive Associations Act 1923-1974 producer/ Minister for Justice and Attorney-General), supplier members must hold the total voting by leave, without notice: I move- power unless the co-operative is exempted "That the House will, at its present by the Governor in Council. No provision sitting, resolve ilself into a Committee of exists for direct conversion from one class the Whole to consider introducing a Bill of co-operative to the other. To do so to amend the Co-operative and Other would involve the extremely expensive Societies Act 1967-1976 and the Primary operation of total dissolution of one body Producers' Co-operative Associations Act and recommencement as a new entity. Pro­ 1923-1974 each in certain particulars." vision does exist for conversion from a company to a co-operative society and vice Motion agreed to. versa, and from a primary producers' co-operative association to a company. Accordingly, in view of the foregoing, it INITIATION IN COMMITTEE is most desirable that there be complement­ (Mr. Miller, Ithaca, in the chair) ary legislation in both Acts to permit a co-operative registered under one Act to Hon. W. D. LICKISS (Mt. Coot-tha-­ become a co-operative registered under the Minister for Justice and Attorney-General): other. (11.47 p.m.): I move- "That a Bill be introduced to amend the The attention of honourable members is Co-operative and Other Societies Act directed to the fact that, if a co-operative 1967-1976 and the Primary Producers' society registered under the Co-operative and Co-operative Associations Act 1923-1974 Other Societies Act were to become a each in certain particulars." co-operative association registered under the Primary Producers' Co-operative Associa­ In 1966 the Babinda Co-operative Central tions Act, its non-producer/supplier mem­ Mill Society Limited converted from a com­ bers would lose their voting rights unless pany registered under the Companies Act the association was otherwise exempted. to a co-operative society under the Co-opera­ However, if the reverse situation applied, tive and Other Societies Act. The purpose of non-producer /supplier members could gain that conversion was to take advantage of voting rights they may not already have. 668 Co-operative and Other [26 APRIL 1978] Societies Act, &c., Bill

The Bill provides that a co-operative it has been unable to reach that peak. registered under the Co-operative and Other It would have the worst history of Queensland Societies Act may, by special resolution, mills in achieving peak production. determine to apply to be registered under the Primary Producers' Co-operative Associations As I mentioned earlier, much of the blame Act and vice versa. Thus it will be in the can be attributed to there being so many hands of the members of the particular non-supplier shareholders in the mill who co-operative to determine what action is are not prepared at their annual meetings, taken. or whatever they have, to allow the finances to be poured back into further development The question of amalgamation of societies of the mill itself so that it can achieve better and associations has also been under exam­ productivity. This is one of the reasons ination. At present societies may amalgamate why this particular mill is in trouble. with societies, and associations with associa­ tions. Under the Co-operative and Other I am a firm believer, and so is the Aus­ Societies Act societies may amalgamate with tralian Labor Party, that a co-operative associations. Also, an association may be should in fact, more than anything else, be a member of a society, and a society may 'be under the auspices of the Primary Producers' a member of an association. Co-operative Associations Act so that each individual supplier to that co-operative is It is desirable therefore that it be pro­ entitled to one vote, as has been explained vided in the Primary Producers' Co-operative by the Minister, and so that, in order to Association Act that associations may amal­ become a member of the co-operative, a gamate with societies. The Bill provides person must in fact be a supplier. When a for this and further that the members deter­ farm is sold or amalgamated, the voting mine under which Act to apply to he number is altered to make sure that the mill registered. The present provision of the is controlled by the people who are supplying Co-operative and Other Societies Act is cane to it. In more recent years we have replaced by a provision similar to that being seen cases of a number of take-overs of sugar included in the Primary Producers' Co-opera­ mills in Queensland in which the reverse tive Associations Act. In all cases the situation could have applied. existing rights as at the date the new co-operative comes into existence will be The Queensland Government stands con­ preserved. demned for its failure in 1975 to assist the growers of the Pleystowe Mill in the Mackay The effect of the Bill is to permit co­ area, the Kalamia Mill in the Ayr district operatives registered under one Act to deter­ and the Haughton Mill at Giru, 60 per cent mine to apply to be registered under the of which was owned by Amalgamated Sugar other and to permit societies and associations Mills. The Government stands condemned to amalgamate and determine under which Act to apply for registration. for not moving in and helping the farmers in the area to take over these mills as I commend the Bill to the Committee. co-operative mills by using the Primary Pro­ ducers' Co-operative Associations Act at that point of time. It stands condemned because, Mr. CASEY (Mackay) (11.53 p.m.): I for sure, those mills would have been far recognise that the purpose of the Bill intro­ better for the farmers if their operations d~ce~ by the Minister is to help a sugar had been controlled by the growers in those mill m Queenland out of the difficulties in particular areas. which it finds itself. On the surface the Bill appears to be of a purely technical They were most keen to do this but they nature. However, the Minister did not had no support from the Queensland Gov­ explain properly whether the effect of the ernment. They even went overseas to try Bill will be that the non-supplier share­ to get some finance to help them to do it. holders in this mill will go out of existence. Their every endeavour was knocked back This is the crux of this problem affecting by the Queensland Government. But now the mill. The main problem affecting Babinda the rush is on to help the shareholders in and many other mills in Queensland is that the Babinda Mill to try to maintain their ~on-supplier shareholders are interested only equity in their mill. m takmg profits from the mill rather than ploughing them back in to revitalise and There are a number of problems in that reconstruct a mill to improve its operations. area. One of them was highlighted recently by the decision of the Government to For many years Babinda mill had been implement the report and recommendations suffering from severe financial difficulties. of the Matthews committee on pool-pricing It is one of the smaller mills in North in the industry. This again highlights the Queensland. Its main problem is that it fact that many of the mills in the far is completely landlocked and has no further northern area have severe financial problems. room for expansion. Production in the What will happen is that growers and millers mill area has increased thanks to better from the Bundaberg area, the Mackay dis­ productivity through the use of improved trict and the Burdekin area will be contribu­ fertilisers and cane varieties. While this ting large sums of money which they earned has helped the mill to increase production, for the sugar industry last year towards the for many years the mill has not reached its help and support of mills such as Babinda peak. Although it has had its peak increased, Mill in this northern area. Co-operative and Other [26 & 27 APRIL 1978] Societies Act, &c., Bill 669

Despite the endeavour to maintain over [Thursday, 27 April 1978] the years a proportional percentage increase in peaks, Babinda has been unable to meet Mr. ROW (Hinchinbrook) (12.2 a.m.): I those peaks in· the same way as have the support this Bill. What the honourable mills in the Mackay district, in the Burdekin member for Mackay has said about the district in particular, and, it is hoped, in the constitution of members of these co-opera­ Bundaberg area once the irrigation scheme tive societies is true, although I think he there is finished. would not accuse me too much if I suggested We have seen a number of problems that he might be jumping on the bandwagon arising in mills in recent years. A look at here. The non-active constituent of co­ the present peaks of sugar mills throughout operative societies has always been a worry. the entire State discloses that the balance If provisions were not carefully contained has swung from the co-operative mills con­ in the co-operative legislation, I could give trolling more than 50 per cent of the peaks examples of stores that could be taken over 10 or 15 years ago to the proprietary mills by people not directly involved or responsible now controlling the bulk of the peaks. to the principals of the co-operative move­ ment. In fact, outside token shareholders Amendments to these Acts should go a who merely have a trading share (probably little further. What we should be doing is as small as one share) could, if the pro­ encouraging the co-operative sugar mills in visions in the Act are not met, take over Queensland to set up their own association. any kind of co-operative institution to the There should be a combined association of disadvantage of its true members, who are, all of the co-operative mills in Queensland in the case of the sugar mills, the suppliers. on a similar basis to that of the proprietary Usually the same sort of principle is involved sugar mills. I accept-and good luck to in other co-operative enterprises. them-that the proprietary sugar mills in Queensland have been able to strengthen This measure of protection has to be their position in the sugar industry because sustained. I do not think that the Queens­ of the way in which they have bound them­ land Government can stand in disrepute. This selves together in the Proprietary Sugar provision has been preserved over the years. Millers' Association. Because of their Whenever the Co-operative and Other strength and po~ition in the sugar industry, Societies Act has been reviewed, this pro­ they have been m a much better position to vision has always been pertinent-and it has act in take-overs in mill areas as we saw been retained. I am pleased to see on this in the C.S.R. deals that I mentioned earlier. occasion that protection for legitimate I would like to see a provision in this co-operativism still remains under this Bill allowing the co-operative sugar mills in legislation. Queensland to set up a mutual association What the honourable member for Mackay within the sugar industry. I think that this said about the Matthews report is something would be of tremendous benefit not only to which I don't think is really pertinent to them as individuals but also to the industry the provisions of the Bill; but, as he men­ as a whole, because the association would tioned it, I should say it has to be admitted be_ ~nother major voice speaking within the that the subject of the Matthews report m1llmg area on behalf of these mills. in fact related to assisting land-locked areas. If the Babinda Mill does have problems The Babinda Mill, of course, is one that that should be overcome, the Opposition comes very much into that category. The is most anxious that it be allowed to go implementation of the Matthews report is ahead with its borrowings from the Reserve justified because the type of production that Bank. If there is a technical problem that the honourable member for Mackay refers is holding it up, it is as well to clear it to has always been known to be an at-risk up now and get it out of the road. It is production. There has always been a bonus no good correcting one problem and thereby in it, through good fortune rather than for creating others. If we are going to correct any other reason, particularly for the region this particular problem, we should ensure that the honourable member represents. It that we fix up all the problems of the cannot go on forever relying on its good Babinda Mill for all time and the problems fortune at the expense of some other legiti­ of other sugar mills, too. The Bill does make mate producer who is bound not only by the provision that other sugar mills can do rules of the legislation under which this likewise, or other co-operatives in Queens­ production is made and through which mar­ land can do likewise. We want to ensure kets are found, but also by circumstances that we do not reach a similar position where production cannot be increased for the in other mill areas. I know that in the very reasons which have been stated. I am electorate of the Minister for Culture, happy to support the Bill in its present National Parks and Recreation there are form. two sugar mills that have financial problems as well. We want to ensure that they, too, Hon. W. D. LICKISS (Mt. Coot-tha­ are able to continue to trade. We have to Minister for Justice and Attorney-General) fix it up so that the suppliers will be the (12.6 a.m.), in reply: I thank honourable key. They must become the key in co­ members for their contributions and their operatives, particularly co-operative sugar support of this measure before the Com­ mills. mittee. As has been mentioned, this is 670 Papers [27 APRIL 1978] Questions Upon Notice purely a machinery matter to provide, amongst other things, machinery to allow members to elect to change their co-operative from one form to another, and in this instance to give effect to the easier obtaining of rural credits advances. I will in the second reading cover more of the matters raised by the honourable member for Mackay, but I would draw his attention to the fact that if a co-operative society registered under the Co-operative and Other Societies Act were to become a co-operative association registered under the Primary Producers' Co-operative Associa­ tions Act, its non-member suppliers could lose their voting rights unless the associa­ tion were otherwise exempted. However, if the reverse situation applied, non-producer supplier members could gain voting rights they may not already have, and the Bill will provide that a co-operative registered under the Co-operative and Other Societies Act may, by special resolution, determine to apply to be registered under the Primary Producers' Co-operative Associations Act and vice versa. This is the point. It will be seen that in fact the destiny of the co-operatives will be in the hands of the members of the co-operative to determine what action is taken. I commend the Bill to the Committee. Motion (Mr. Lickiss) agreed to. Resolution reported.

FIRST READING Bill presented and, on motion of Mr. Lickiss, read a first time. The House adjourned at 12.9 a.m. (Thursday).