Queensland

Parliamentary Debates [Hansard]

Legislative Assembly

THURSDAY, 15 MARCH 1973

Electronic reproduction of original hardcopy

2938 Matters of Public Interest (15 MARCH 1973] Ministerial Statement

THURSDAY, 15 MARCH 1973

Mr. SPEAKER (Hon. W. H. Lonergan, Flinders) read prayers and took the chair at 11 a.m.

PAPERS The following papers were laid on the table:- Proclamations under- The Diseases in Plants Acts, 1929 to 1948. Fish Supply Management Act 1972. Metric Conversion Act 1972. Orders in Council under- The Agricultural Bank (Loans) Act of 1959. The City of Brisbane Market Acts, 1960 to 1967. The Fauna Conservation Act of 1952. The Fisheries Acts, 1957 to 1962. Meat Industry Act 1965-1969. The Milk Supply Acts, 1952 to 1961. The Regulation of Sugar Cane Prices Acts, 1962 to 1966. The Soil Conservation Act of 1965. The Wheat Pool Acts, 1920 to 1957. Regulations under- The Fauna Conservation Act of 1952. The Primary Producers' Organisation and Marketing Acts, 1926 to 1966. The Stock Acts, 1915 to 1965.

MINISTERIAL STATEMENT FIRE-SAFETY PRECAUTIONS Hon. F. A. CAMPBELL (Aspley-Min­ ister for Development and Industrial Affairs) (11.4 a.m.): I feel it essential that I set out the actual situation regarding precautions for public safety in the event of fire in factories and shops, theatres and places of amusement, and in respect of premises which have a liquor licence. This is as follows. The Factories and Shops Act, which is administered by the Department of Industrial Affairs, sets out safety requirements for employees in factories and shops. By arrange­ ment, the Brisbane City Council refers all plans of new factories and shops or exten­ sions of present factories and shops for exam­ ination by the Chief Inspector of Factories and Shops in order to ensure that they comply with the requirements of the Factories and Shops Act, including precautions for the safety of employees in the event of fire. Where the building is not more than two storeys high, the Chief Inspector and his staff deal with the matter to ensure that the provisions of the Factories and Shops Act are complied with. In cases where the con­ struction or extension involves three storeys or more, or is of a complicated nature, the Ministerial Statement [15 MARCH 1973] Questions Upon Notice 2939 plans are referred to the Metropolitan Fire Liquor Acts. I further stress that every Brigades Board for examination and advice individual citizen has a definite responsibility in regard to the fire precautions which it con­ in the matter of fire safety. siders are necessary to be contained in the It is realised that at present there are plans. The plans are only approved by the certain gaps in regard to the co-ordination of Chief Inspector provided the recommenda­ the responsibilities and duties between the tions of the Metropolitan Fire Brigades various instrumentalities and the Metropolitan Board are incorporated in the plan. Fire Brigades Board. This must not be taken There is complete co-operation between the to indicate that there is any question what­ Chief Inspector of Factories and Shops and ever about the efficiency of the fire-fighting the Metropolitan Fire Brigades Board, and a services provided by the Metropolitan Fire similar situation exists throughout the State Brigades Board. with other Fire Brigade boards and local Let me quote just one instance of lack of authorities. co-ordination. In June 1970 the Govern­ The Brisbane City Council is responsible ment sent to the Brisbane City Council sug­ for all building construction requirements in gested amendments to the draft building the City of Brisbane, including places of ordinances in respect of fire precautions in amusement and entertainment. The Licensing high-rise and other buildings. The council, Commission is similarly responsible in respect in July 1971, promised to review within 12 of all places which have been issued with a months its attitude to Chapter 18, which is licence under the Liquor Acts. The respon­ the building ordinance dealing with new sibility of the State Fire Services Council is construction work, alterations and additions limited to encouragement, supervision and to existing structures. In December 1972 giving of advice on fire-protection methods the Council appointed a committee to further and activities. examine the ordinance. No reply has been received currently to March 1973. In other The Metropolitan Fire Brigades Board has words, 2t years have elapsed since the first authority for fire officers who observe any move was made. fire hazard to report it to their Chief Officer, As I announced in the Press this morning, who informs the Metropolitan Fire Brigades both the State Fire Services Council and the Board, which is then required to notify the Metropolitan Fire Brigades Board are con­ Brisbane City Council. cerned about this lack of co-ordination and There is no legal provision at present communication, and the State Fire Services which requires either the Chief Inspector of Council is preparing a submission for my Factories and Shops, the Licensing Commis­ consideration concerning the steps which sion or the Brisbane City Council to submit should be taken to overcome any short­ to the Metropolitan Fire Brigades Board, for comings. approval, plans and specifications regarding the construction or alteration of factories QUESTIONS UPON NOTICE and shops, theatres and places of entertain­ ment and amusement or of premises which S.E.A. ELECTRICITY EXTENSION CHARGE have a licence under the Liquor Acts. How­ AND GUARANTEED UsAGE, CABOOLTURE ever, the Metropolitan Fire Brigades Board, PROPERTIES when requested to examine such plans and Mr. Houston, pursuant to notice, asked specifications, has always been happy to do The Minister for Local Government,- this work. ( 1) What is the basis for an alleged In so far as Government buildings are charge by the Southern Electric Authority concerned, the responsibility to ensure that of Queensland of $5,000 for extending adequate fire-precaution measures are avail­ domestic supply to the Ballard household able in all Government buildings is primarily at Lot 4, Bribie Road, Caboolture and that of the Works Department. SOme little what guaranteed usage per annum was time ago the Inter-departmental Standing demanded? Committee on Occupational Safety, under the chairmanship of the Chairman of the Public (2) Have the owners of vacant land Service Board, requested the Works Depart­ lying between the nearest power pole and ment to review the situation in all Govern­ the Ballard property been requested to ment buildings and this review commenced make some contribution to the cost of some weeks ago. The State Fire services the extension? If not, what is the reason? Council has been happy to assist the Works being informed that power is available? Department through its inspectorate. (3) On what basis of fact are likely I feel I must stress that there is no ques­ purchasers of vacant land in this area tion that the Licensing Commission, the Department of Industrial Affairs and the Brisbane City Council have definite respon­ Answers:- sibilities and duties to take all steps possible (!) "Supply has been offered on the to ensure that adequate safety precautions basis of a non-refundable capital contri­ against fire are provided in all factories and bution and a guaranteed revenue to achieve shops, theatres and places of entertainment an economic return to the Authority on the and places which have a licence under the capital cost of the extension." 2940 Questions Upon Notice [15 MARCH 1973) Questions Upon Notice

(2) "Last November an offer of supply areas. With the proclamation of the Clean was made to the four potential consumers Waters Act 1971 there will be an obliga­ in this group on the basis of a $500 non­ tion on the Council to comply with the refundable capital contribution and a $100 provisions of that Act with regard to the guaranteed consumption for six years. No discharge of wastes to streams, water­ reply was received from the three other courses, and estuaries." property owners involved and the offer was withdrawn. Supply to only one consumer ( 4) "According to the 1971-72 Annual would require a prohibitively high capital Report published by the Brisbane City contribution and guarantee." Council the total number of council employees in the Health Department as at (3) "If likely purchasers of vacant land June 30, 1972, was 215." contact the Authority they will be informed (5) "Figures published in the annual if power is available." reports indicate that as at June 30, 1971, there were 240 employees in the Health Department whilst at June, 1970, there were 226. These figures indicate a slight HEALTH HAZARDS FROM UNTREATED decrease. This percentage decrease in the SEWAGE, BRISBANE Health Department employment approxi­ Dr. Crawford, pursuant to notice, asked mates to the percentage decrease in the The Minister for Local Government,- total council employment over the same period." As it has been stated that up to 60 areas exist in the Brisbane metropolitan area, under the control of ,the Brisbane ILLEGAL FIRING OF DISTRESS FLARES City Council, where untreated sewage runs FROM BOATS in uncovered channels-- Mr. Aikens, pursuant to notice, asked The (1) How many such areas exist? Minister for Conservation,- In view of the grave potential danger (2) What treatment is given by the to decent, law-abiding boat owners resulting Brisbane City Council to these areas to from the stupid and illegal firing of distress prevent health hazards by diseases carried and other flares from boats, what action by sewage? is proposed to wipe out or minimise this dangerous practice during the coming (3) Has his Department made any sug­ Easter holiday season? gestion or given any direction to the Council to ensure that such hazards are Answer:- eliminated from our city? "It is an offence against the Marine Act ( 4) What is the Brisbane City Council's to display any signal of distress except in Health Department establishment? the case of a vessel being in distress or to (5) Has there been a drastic decrease display any private signal that is liable to in the numbers of persons employed by be mistaken for a distress signal. I am the Council's Health Department and can pleased to say that the practice of illegal he draw a comparison of the situation as firing of distress flares is rare. My Depart­ it applies now, one year ago and three ment of Harbours and Marine is aware of years ago? only two instances in recent years. In each case, the offence was thoroughly investi­ Answers:- gated. The Honourable Member can be and any report of such incidents will be (1) "I am not aware of the statement investigated by police or departmental that up to 60 areas exist in the Brisbane assured that any such instances observed Metropolitan area under the control of the officers with a view to prosecution." Brisbane City Council where untreated sewage runs in channels without covering and I do not know precisely how many LOCAL GOVERNMENT CONTROL OF such areas exist. However there are a con­ siderable number of outlets." TORRES STRAIT IsLANDS Mr. Wallis-Smith, pursuant to notice, asked (2) "At present I find it impossible to The Minister for Local Government,- advise what treatment is being adopted by the Brisbane City Council but officers of As he has advocated that the Torres my Department will be investigating for Strait islands will soon come under a local licensing under the Clean Waters Act government- 1971." ( 1) Will the islands be part of the (3) "The Local Government Depart­ Thursday Island Town Council? If not, ment has suggested that provision should what is proposed? be made by the Brisbane City Council to (2) When will the change be made? treat its sewage prior to discharge at Luggage Point. It has also suggested (3) Will a health inspector be appointed measures to abate pollution in unsewered for the area? Questions Upon Notice [15 MARCH 1973] Questions Upon Notice 2941

Answers:- (2) "Provision has been made for septic installations, but such cannot become ( 1) "As I have stated on a number of operative until adequate water is available. occasions the intention of the Government Recent investigations by Irrigation and is that all parts of the State which are not Water Supply officers failed to provide under local government control should be temporary measures to enable the septics brought under such control. Provision for to be immediately operative, thus they will this to be done is contained in the Local not become functional until a town water Government Act 1936-1971 after the supply is completed, which is in the hands representations of interested local author­ of the local authority." ities have been sought and three months' notice of intention have been given. In ( 3) "This matter is within the responsi­ conformity with this policy and pursuant bility of the Local Government Depart­ to the Act, maps have been prepared by ment and as was advised in Answer to a the Surveyor-General illustrating the parts Question on November 23, the Honourable of the State concerned, and the Director Member should direct his inquiry to the of Local Government has written to local Minister for Local Government." authmities adjacent to such parts, including the Thursday Island Town Council, seeking their representations on the inclusion of these parts in local authority areas. This HOUSING FOR ABORIGINES, TOWNSVILLE work is still progressing. Since the islands AREA in Torres Strait are closer to Thursday Island than to any local authority area, it Mr. Wallis-Smith, pursuant to notice, asked appears that the town of Thursday Island The Minister for Conservation,- is the local authority area in which they ( 1) Has his attention been drawn to should be included." an article in The Cairns Post of March 3 headed "Townsville may want Federal (2) "As I mentioned previously, a final assistance with Aborigines."? decision has not been made on the matter but if it is considered that action should (2) What is the house-building pro­ be taken to include the Torres Strait islands gramme for Townsville and adjacent areas in the town of Thursday Island, three for 1973? months' notice of intention of the proposal will have to be given under the Act and (3) How many houses have been (a) interested persons will have a right of built and (b) purchased in Queensland objection to me against the proposal: All to date for the current year? such objections will receive full considera­ tion before a final decision is made on the proposal by the Governor in Council." Answers:­ (1) "Yes." (3) "This would be a matter for con­ sideration by the local authority in con­ (2) "The re-housing programme in the junction with the Director-General of Townsville region has no limitations other Health and Medical Services." than the availability of suitable homes and/ or building allotments for purchase. As an indication of the effort in the Towns­ ville region, we have now 168 homes tenanted, a further 9 in process of being HousiNG AND WATER SUPPLY, CoEN tenanted, 12 under construction, and 8 Mr. Wallis-Smith, pursuant to notice, asked programmed for tender shortly-a total of The Minister for Conservation,- 197. The 1972/73 financial year figures to date, are-Purchased, 24; under con­ (!) How many houses have been com­ struction, 14 single homes, 4 duplex units. pleted at Coen, what was the cost of each Total, 42." and how many are occupied at present? (2) Were septic installations included in (3) "Homes built, 17; purchased, 86; the contract and have they been built? Currently under construction, 81. Total, If so, are they being used and, if not, 184." what arrangements have been made? (3) When will a water scheme be avail­ able for the township of Coen? TRAFFIC COUNTS, FoRGAN SMITH AND HOSPITAL BRIDGES, MACKAY Mr. Casey, pursuant to notice, asked The Answers:- Minister for Mines,- ( 1) "Nineteen houses are under con­ What number of vehicles per day were struction at Coen and twelve of these are using the Forgan Smith and Hospital nearing completion. They cost an average Bridges in Mackay as per traffic counts of $16,500 each, but none are as yet taken nearest to March 1 (a) 1960, (b) occupied." 1970 and (c) 1973? 2942 Questions Upon Notice [15 MARCH 1973] Questions Upon Notice

Answer:- estimate of costs prepared for a new dental "The following figures represent twelve­ clinic. The time at which tenders can be hour traffic counts. Forgan Smith Bridge­ invited will be dependent on the time taken May 23, 1960, 5,653; May 22, 1969, in planning and the availability of neces­ 11,293; January 31, 1973, 13,084. Hospital sary loan finance." Bridge-February 3, 1966, 1,186; June 16, 1971, 2,447." BOARD OF SECONDARY ScHOOL STUDIES Mr. Armstrong, pursuant to notice, asked REST AREAS, BRUCE HIGHWAY The Minister for Education,- Mr. Casey, pursuant to notice, asked The ( 1) Who are the members of the Board Minister for Mines,- of Secondary School Studies? As there are still a number of places (2) What are their professions or in remote areas on the Bruce Highway occupations? in Central and North Queensland where lengthy traffic delays occur because of (3) How are they elected or appointed stream run-offs during the wet season, will and by whom, and for what period? he, because of the high rate of traffic flows on this highway, consider the estab­ Answers:- lishment of rest areas, where none now ( 1 and 2) "The Members of the Board exist, with adequate toilet and watering of Secondary School Studies are:- facilities, fire places and rubbish bins, on each side of the problem creeks and rivers Chairman (appointed by the Gov­ in order to ensure that persons delayed ernor in Council): Mr. A. E. Guymer, by such hold-ups can maintain proper per­ Director-General of Education; sonal and public hygiene? Members (eight nominees of the Director-General, of whom at least Answer:- three shall be practising teachers):­ "A great number of high-level bridges Mr. C. Gilmour, Deputy Director­ have been provided in recent years on the General; Mr. C. R. Roberts, Director Bruce Highway as replacements to old of Secondary Education; Mr. W. L. low-level structures and this programme is Hamilton, Director of Primary ·Educa­ being actively pursued by the Main Roads tion; Mr. G. F. Berkeley, Director of Department as a continuing policy. Side by Special Education Services; Mr. K. S. side with this bridge programme is one of Harvey, Staff Inspector, Department of providing increasing numbers of rest areas Education; Mr. A. H. Anderson, Prin­ with improved amenities in locations which cipal, Kedron High School, Mr. K. P. have been established as the most approp­ O'Connor, Principal, Wavell High riate and convenient to the needs of the School; Miss I. M. Kennedy, Principal, road traveller in all seasons. While these Clayfield College. may not, because of certain basic require­ Two nominees of the Senate of the ments, be located adjacent to the streams University of Queensland and one to which the Honourable Member makes nominee of the Council or other gov­ reference, this possible holdup is one factor erning body of each other University considered and there are a number of areas in the State at any time-Professor K. which would be accessible in the conditions Leopold, Department of German, Uni­ represented by him." versity of Queensland; Professor R. A. Plowman, Department of Chemistry, University of Queensland; Dr. K. J. C. NEW MEDICAL AND DENTAL CLINICS, Back, Vice-Chancellor, J ames Cook SANDGATE University of North Queensland; Mr. Mr. Dean, pursuant to notice, asked The J. Topley, Registrar, Griffith University. Minister for Health,- One representative of colleges of In view of the hardship and incon­ advanced education, other than teachers venience being experienced at the Sand­ colleges, nominated by the Minister, gate Medical and Dental Clinics, especially selected by him from a list containing during the hot summer months, has the names of one person from each approval been given for new medical and college of adlvanced education, sub­ dental clinics at Sandgate? If so, have mitted as a result of a meeting of the plans been prepared, what is the estimated teaching staff of each such college:- cost and when will tenders be called for Mr. L. G. Amos, Senior Lecturer, their erection? Chemistry Department, Queensland Institute of Technology. Answer:- One representative of teachers col­ "As part of redevelopment of the leges nominated by the Minister, Medical and Dental Clinic Centre at Sand­ selected by him from a list containing gate the North Brisbane Hospitals Board the names of one person from each is at present having sketch plans and teachers college submitted as a result Questions Upon Notice [15 MARCH 1973] Questions Upon Notice 2943

of the decision of a meeting of the TELEPHONE CANVASSING OF GOODS teaching staff of each college:-Mr. R. AND SERVICES F. Walker, Vice-Principal Mount Mr. Leese, pursuant to notice, asked The Gravatt Teachers College. Minister for Justice,- ( 1) Is he aware of the increased prac­ Four teachers employed in Queens­ tice of companies and others to make land non-government secondary schools unsolicited telephone calls attempting to nominated by the Minister-two per­ sell various goods and services? sons whose names are submitted by the Catholic Office of Education, Bris­ (2) As this practice is causing some bane, one representing Catholic secon­ considerable annoyance to the public, who dary schools for girls and one represent­ are at times abused when they state their ing Catholic secondary schools for boys; non-interest, and as it is an unwarranted one person whose name is submitted as intrusion into the public's privacy, will he a result of the decision of a meeting take the necessary steps to have the prac­ convened by the executive officer of tice curtailed? the Board or by a person nominated by the Minister for the purpose, such Answers:- meeting to be attended by a repre­ ( I) "Yes." sentative of each of four or more of (2) "Here, I can only warn the public the schools to which "The Grammar against purchasing goods and services Schools Acts, 1860 to 1962" applies; one except through the normal merchandising person whose name is submitted as channels of reputable retailers." a result of the decision of a meeting convened by the executive officer of the Board or by a person nominated FARMER GREENFIELD'S FAMILY FOODS by the Minister for the purpose, such meeting to be attended by a repre­ Mr. Wright, pursuant to notice, asked The sentative of each of six or more Queens­ Minister for Justice,- land secondary schools other than State ( 1) With reference to the firm known schools, Catholic schools and schools as Farmer Greenfield's, what action can to which "The Grammar Schools Acts, be taken by consumers who have (a) 1860 to 1962" applies: Mr. C. D. joined the food plan on a club-member­ Fisher, Principal, Church of England ship basis and (b) purchased a freezer Grammar School; Mr. M. A. Howell, and the food plan, if the agents or dis­ Principal, Brisbane Grammar School; tributors of Farmer Greenfield's have left Sister M. Camillus, Supervisor, Schools the district and/ or the consumers in ques­ of Sisters of Mercy; Rev. Brother tion are unable to purchase the bulk food Landener, Supervisor of Schools con­ orders as promised by this firm? ducted by the Christian Brothers. (2) How many complaints have the Consumer Affairs Bureau and Council Two nominees of the Queensland received about Farmer Greenfield's since Teachers' Union:-Mr. G. Semple, the Bureau and Council were set up? Inspector of Schools, Department of (3) How many of these complaints have Education; Mr. L. T. Schuntner, Sub­ been resolved to the satisfaction of the ject Master, Wynnum High School. consumers concerned?

One nominee of the Queensland Answers:- Association of Teachers in Independent ( 1) "The circumstances outlined by the Schools, being a teacher in a non­ Honourable Member suggest a breach of government secondary school:-Mr. D. contract. If a consumer suspects that such Carron, Teacher, Brisbane Boys College. a breach has occurred, he should immed­ iately seek legal advice." The executive officer of the Board who shall be an ex officio member:-Mr. (2) "Seventy-six." L. Winkle, Executive Officer." ( 3) "It is net possible to supply accurate information on this matter as many con­ 3. "The members of the Board, deter­ sumers do not advise the Bureau of the mined in accordance with the Education satisfactory resolution of their complaints." Act 1964-1970, are appointed by the Governor in Council by notification pub­ APPLICATIONS FOR SUBSIDY BY lished in the Gazette. The term of office SPORTING ORGANISATIONS of the Board (other than the ex officio Mr. Wright, pursuant to notice, asked The member) first constituted under this Act Minister for Tourism,- is five years, and such members shall, ( 1) In view of his Answer to my Ques­ if otherwise qualified, be eligible for tion concerning the application by the re-appointment, the period of any sub­ Rockhampton Amateur Basketball Associa­ sequent term being four years." tion for special subsidy and his assertion 2944 Questions Upon Notice (15 MARCH 1973] Questions Upon Notice

that the Q.A.B.A. has supported this ENVIRONMENT IMPACT STUDIES ON application, is he aware that, on February PROJECTS 28 in a letter to his Department, the Mr. Burns, pursuant to notice, asked The President of the Q.A.B.A. did not make Premier,- an affirmative recommendation and in com­ menting on the Rockhampton request stated With reference to his Press release of that the application was premature as it November 27, 1972, entitled "Cabinet did not seem that their financial planning approves Environment Impact Studies on had reached a stage where the project Projects"- could be taken through to finality? ( I) What criteria will be used to deter­ (2) Has an application been made for mine whether or not a project merits an special assistance by the Q.A.B.A. or the environmental study? Brisbane branch for a stadium in Brisbane (2) Will such a decision be made by and, if so, how much has been stated in Cabinet or will members of the public the application as being already held by be entitled to request such studies? way of funds towards such a project? (3) At what stage in a project will the Answers:- environmental studies be undertaken? ( 4) If the studies are undertaken after (! ) "I am at a loss to understand the the initiation of projects, as there is a concern of the Honourable Member in danger that because of the moneys already relation to this matter. I am fully aware of outlaid the studies could result in reports the contents of the letter received from which would merely justify such projects the Queensland Amateur Basketball Asso­ as part of a face-saving exercise, will he ciation, regarding an application submitted give an assurance that this will not be by the Rockhampton Amateur Basketball the case? Association, but as I stated in my previous Answer to his Question, the Queensland ( 5) Will all aspects of an impact study Amateur Basketball Association did submit be made public or will there be secret the application for consideration and my clauses, agreements, etc. to which only Department has it listed for consideration Cabinet has access? along with all other applications." (6) If such impact studies are to be (2) "An application has been received made public, at what stage will this be from the Queensland Amateur Basketball done? Association on behalf of Queensland (7) Will environmental bodies and Basketball Inc. The application sets out others interested be given an opportunity that funds available by way of cash in to express their views at the investigational hand and loans amount to $75,000." stage or will the public merely be told of a decision after it has been made? (8) As the Press release states that INSPECTOR D. M. BECKER, CRIME there will be a right of appeal on points INTELLIGENCE UNIT, POLICE of law, will there also be lights of appeal DEPARTMENT on environmental, economic or other Mr. Burns, pursuant to notice, asked The grounds? Minister for Works,- ( 1) Did one or more high-ranking com­ Answer:- missioned officers of the Police Force fur­ ( 1 to 8) "Impact studies will be under­ nish a report or reports to the Commis­ taken where there is a need to rationalise sioner some time ago in relation to the development with the environment, both Chief of the Crime Intelligence Unit, human and natural, and will be designed Inspector D. M. Becker? If so, who were with a flexibility that will ensure that a the officers and when were the reports considered assessment will be available made? both to the Administering Authority and, (2) If a report or reports were made, where necessary, the Commonwealth what were the recommendations and by Government." whom were they made? (3) If any such recommendations were made, what action was taken by the DENTAL-TECHNICIAN APPRENTICES Commissioner to implement them? Mr. Melloy, pursuant to notice, asked The ( 4) If recommendations were made, Minister for Development,- when were the details first brought to his How many dental-technician apprentices notice? are registered in Queensland? Answer:- Answer:- (1 to 4) "Will the HGnourable Member please repeat his Question for Tuesday "The present position regarding dental next, March 20, as the information being technician apprentices is as follows:- sought is expected to be available at that Indentured apprentices, 39; probationary time." apprentices, 4." Questions Upon Notice [15 MARCH 1973] Questions Upon Notice 2945

TRAINING OF FEMALE DENTAL HoUSING COMMISSION PROJECT, AUXILIARIES THOZET RoAD, ROCKHAMPTON Mr. Melloy, pursuant to notice, asked The Mr. Yewdale, pursuant to notice, asked Minister for Health,- The Minister for Works,- ( 1) Has any progress been made in the ( 1) How far advanced are the servicing implementation of his Department's pro­ works on the Housing Commission's land posal to institute female dental auxiliaries? situated at Thozet Road? (2) Does his Department propose to (2) When is it expected that house take advantage of the facilities for training construction will commence? auxiliaries in New Zealand or Tasmania? (3) Will the implementation of the (3) Is it intended to construct further Commonwealth scheme in this field have pensioners' cottages on this site? any effect on the timing of the introduction ( 4) What will be the proportion of of his Department's plan? houses constructed for sale and for rental in the Thozet Road-Horton Street area? Answer:- ( 1 to 3) "The training of dental Answers:- auxiliaries or dental therapists for employ­ ( 1) "Sewer lines are almost complete ment in the dental service of this State is and some stormwater drainage has been currently being re-examined following on constructed. Certain questions have arisen advice from the Commonwealth Govern­ in regard to survey which affect the road­ ment of a proposal for a dental health works and drainage. These are receiving scheme for school children." attention and the Rockhampton City Coun­ cil will give this work a high priority." (2) "Tenders have closed for 20 houses QUILPIE AND HERBERTON HOSPITALS and are under consideration." Mr. F. P. Moore, pursuant to notice, asked ( 3 ) "Further aged pensioners' units on The Minister for Health,- this estate are not planned at this stage but this is subject to later review. To avoid (1) What is the present situation with delay another site has been obtained at regard to the closure of the Quilpie Hos­ Hardy Street and tenders for 7 more pital? units will be called very shortly." (2) If the hospital is remaining open, ( 4) "In accordance with the policy of why were the wishes of the residents of the this Government to encourage homeowner­ Herberton district, contained in a petition ship, the houses will be available to eligible which I presented to this Parliament, not purchase applicants during the construction considered? period and if not sold will be available for rental." (3) Will he enquire from Dr. Evering­ ham, the Commonwealth Health Minister, as to the Commonwealth aid which hos­ pitals at Herberton and Quilpie can expect ENROLMENTS AND WAITING LISTS, to receive? OPPORTUNITY SCHOOLS Mr. Yewdale, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Education,- Answers:- ( 1) "The Honourable Member has (!) In relation to enrolments and wait­ obviously been misinformed. I know of ing lists for students requiring entry to no proposal to close down the Quilpie opportunity schools, what is (a) the total Hospital." enrolment of and (b) the number of children waiting for entry to, each oppor­ (2 and 3) "The petition from residents tunity school in (i) the metropolitan area of the Herberton district to which the and (ii) the country area? Honourable Member refers, was carefully (2) What were the total numbers of considered in relation to the decision made applications received and children waiting regarding Herberton Hospital. The circum­ for entry to opportunity schools in 1970, stances pertaining to Herberton Hospital 1971 and 1972? are completely different from those at Quilpie-for instance, Herberton is only 12 Answers:- miles distant by good road from Atherton, whereas Quilpie is 129 road miles from ( I) "Total enrolments at the end of Charleville-the closest hospital to Quilpie. February 1973 in opportunity schools and I will write at length to the Honourable classes were as follows:- Member setting out in full detail the (a) Metropolitan Area:-Baroona circumstances surrounding the decision 141; Buranda 114; Darling Point 108; with regard to Herberton Hospital." Dutton Park 135; Inala 171; Mitchelton 2946 Questions Upon Notice [15 MARCH 1973) Questions Upon Notice

116; Mount Gravatt 140; Newstead 110; being finalised, plans are being prepared for Sandgate 93; Windsor 136; Wynnum a bridge over Frenchman's Creek, while Central 28. preliminary design of a section from the (b) Country Areas:-Aitkenvale 110; junction of Clifton and Musgrave Streets Atherton 31; Ayr 53; Beaudesert 35; to the Y eppoon Turnoff is in hand. Bundaberg 68; Caboolture 35; Cairns 68; Additionally the survey of the new road Charters Towers 36; Cleveland 42; along Moores Creek is progressing." Dalby 41; Gladstone 60; Gold Coast 115; (2) "No resumption action has been Gympie 58; Ingham 37; Innisfail 33; taken by the Main Roads Department, nor Ipswich Central 106; Ipswich West 54; have any resumption notices been served." Kingaroy 27; Mackay 119; Mareeba 39; Maryborough 80; Mount Isa 62; Murgon 29; Nambou.r 38; Petrie 58; Redcliffe 90; ENGLISH TEXTBOOK, REDCLIFFE Rockhampton 125; Toowoomba 121; HIGH ScHOOL Townsville 110; Warwick 38; Woodridge Mr. Bromley, pursuant to notice, asked 115." The Minister for Education,- (2) "Number of Children waiting for ( 1) Will he investigate and have appro­ admission to opportunity schools and priate action taken on a claim made to classes at end of February 1973 were:- me, which has distressed parents and (a) Metropolitan Area:-Baroona 3; students, that a teacher at the Redcliffe Buranda 0; Darling Point 0; Dutton Park State High School, on or about March 0; Inala 4; Mitchelton 6; Mount Gravatt 12, told students of an English class that 10; Newstead 0; Sandgate 23; Windsor 4; if they did not immediately purchase the Wynnum Central 0. book "English Today Book 2" by Allsop, Hunt, Lodge and Elder, they would be (b) Country Areas:-Aitkenvale 0; expelled from the class? Atherton 0; Ayr 0; Beaudesert 0; Bunda­ berg 27; Caboolture 1; Cairns 0; (2) As the book retails at $2.50, is Charters Towers 0 Cleveland 8; Dalby printed in Sydney and Is practically imposs­ 8; Gladstone 0; Gold Coast 19; Gympie ible to buy at short notice and as the 11; Ingham 4; Innisfail 1; Ipswich much-vaunted free education system is a Central 0; Ipswich West 0; Kingaroy 0; fallacy, what right has a teacher to issue Mackay 29; Mareeba 0; Maryborough this type of instruction? 23; Mount Isa 0; Murgon 0; Nambour Answers:- 22; Petrie 10; Redcliffe 0; Rockhampton 31; Toowoomba 69; Townsville 0; ( 1) "Enquiries at the school have not Warwick 6; Woodridge 0." revealed any evidence which would support this charge. Moreover, the principal of the ( 3) "Statistics are not maintained for Redcliffe State High School advises that the number of applicants received but the he has not received any complaints con­ total number of children waiting for nected with the use of "English Today admission to opportunity schools and Book 2". All teachers of classes using the classes throughout the State at the end of book have stated emphatically that they the year was as follows:-December did not make the statement quoted in the 1970-592; December 1971-709; Decem­ Honourable Member's Question or any ber 1972-525." similar statement." (2) "The book is not difficult to obtain. The bookseller who supplies most of the ROAD TRANSPORTATION STUDY, books used at the Redcliffe State High NORTH ROCKHAMPTON School advised this morning that it has Mr. Yewdale, pursuant to notice, asked been readily available and that he has at The Minister for Mines,- least fifty copies of it in stock. The allega­ tions contained in the Honourable Mem­ (1) How far advanced is the detailed Road Transportation Study being carried ber's Question are very serious and they out by his Department with regard to the appear to be most unfair to teachers and new road system in the North Rockhamp­ to the school. If, however, the Honourable ton area? Member is not satisfied with the Answers I have given, I invite him to give me any (2) Have any resumptions yet taken specific information which will support the place and, if not, have any resumption charges made." notices been served?

Answers:- REVENUE FROM PAY-ROLL TAX AND STAMP DuTY ( 1) "The only roads which will be under the control of the Main Roads Department Mr. Harvey, pursuant to notice, asked The in North Rockhampton will be the present Treasurer,- route of the Bruce Highway, the Rock­ With reference to the notification in the hampton-Y eppoon Road and 'the proposed Queensland Government Gazette of March road along Moores Creek. On these roads,, 12 regarding moneys paid into consoli­ the design of Queen Elizabeth Drive is dated revenue for the half-year ended Questions Upon Notice [15 MARCH 1973] Questions Upon Notice 2947

December 31, 1972, viz., from pay-roll tax If so, what is the name of the firm or $29,687,382.56 as against $12,771,666.09 persons and when will the investigation for the corresponding period of the pre­ and design be completed? vious year, an increase of $16,915,716 and (2) As submissions have previously from stamp duty $23,478,160.43 as against been made to the Commonwealth Govern­ $16,181,856.03 for the corresponding period ment for financial assistance, was this of the previous year, an increase of included and what was the estimate antici­ $7,296,304- pated for this extension? ( 1) What are the reasons for the sub­ stantial increases? Answers:- (2) How will this money be utilised and (1) "Messrs. Cameron, McNamara and what effect at this stage will it have on the Partners Pty. Ltd., 131 Leichhardt Street, overall budget for the year? Brisbane. The investigation and design are to be completed by December, 1973. Unfortunately, the extent of the work has Answers:- made it impossible to adhere to the antici­ ( 1) "The increase in pay-roll tax pated completion date of September, 1973." collections occurred largely because, at (2) "This work forms part of the Urban December 31, 1971, the State had been Transport Project for which financial collecting pay-roll tax for three months assistance has been sought from the only whereas at December 31, 1972, it had Federal Government. The estimated cost received a full six months' collections in of this connection prepared in 1972 was the financial year. Stamp duty revenues $7,500,000." increased primarily because of increased activity in the real estate field compounded by increased real estate values." Co-ORDINATION OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT, (2) "As a result of the increases men­ BRISBANE AREA tioned, Cabinet has approved additional Mr. Harvey, pursuant to notice, asked The spending in a number of areas where the Minister for Transport,- revenue prospect at the commencement of the year was not sufficient to provide the ( 1) When will a recommendation be desired level of service. The main areas brought forward for consideration with where increased spending has been reference to the better utilisation and approved are the Education Department co-ordination of all forms of public and where funds have been provided for personal transport within the Brisbane and additional teachers, equipment in schools near-Brisbane areas? and improved library standards; the Health (2) Has any consideration or finality Department where spending on general been decided? If so, will it operate as maintenance equipment etc. has been one authority or purely under a co-ordinat­ increased; and the Works Department ing authority? where funds have been made available to (3) What is the general attitude and catch up on some of the maintenance policy of the Government in relation to works which had been lagging through the the above? - shortage of funds. We have made these additional allocations on the assumption ( 4) What investigations and discussions that the trend towards increases in ~tamp has the departmental officer peen engaged duty revenue will continue for the in relative to the scheme? remainder of this financial year and that Answer:- the additional revenue will assist in off­ setting increases in costs, particularly wage (1 to 4) "No doubt the Honourable award increases which the Government is Member will be aware that a promise of required to meet, and enable some reduc­ Commonwealth financial assistance for tion in the amount of the accumulated urban public transport to the extent only of deficit of $1 · 9 million for which we had to two-thirds of capital expenditure was made budget at the beginning of the year." as recently as February 16 this year on the occasion of the meeting of the Aus­ tralian Transport Advisory Council in CRoss-RIVER RAIL CoNNECTION, Hobart. He will also be aware of the BRISBANE study report by Wilbur Smith and Asso­ ciates of the urban transport needs of the Mr. Harvey, pursuant to notice, asked The Brisbane Region which the Government Minister for Transport,- commissioned. Following the February As $300,000 has been provided in the Australian Transport Advisory Council 1972-73 loan estimates to pay for founda­ meeting urgent action was taken by the tion investigation, planning and design for Government through its urban transport the cross-river rail connection between committee to set up a special planning South Brisbane and Roma Street- group of technical experts to prepare with ( 1 ) Was a firm of consultant engineers the utmost urgency a further and more or other persons engaged or detailed to detailed submission as required by the Corn~ carry out the investigation and design? monwealth of estimated expenditure for 2948 Questions Upon Notice [15 MARCH 1973] Questions Without Notice

1973-1978. In these circumstances until such (2) "In 1971-72 the Department of time as the submissions have been prepared Health provided the following subsidies:­ and considered by the Commonwealth $275,377 for teachers, $200,000 endow­ and some definite financial involvement on ment, $6,693 capital subsidy. The Depart­ its side is assured, no definite statement ment of Education expended $55,998 can be made as to how quickly the towards transport of sub-normal children. Government can implement its election In 1972-73 the Department of Health has promise to update our urban public trans­ provided $200,000 for endowment to the port, having regard to the State's limited Queensland Sub-Normal Children's Welfare resources. Nevertheless, the Honourable Association. The Department of Education Member may rest assured that when the has made provision for the following important question of Commonwealth expenditure :-Subsidies for teachers, financial assistance is resolved in practical $407,400; cost of transport of sub-normal terms, we will then be in a position to children, $102,000." announce the methods we will adopt for the implementation of programmes which are being formulated at the present time QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE having regard to financial considerations. LOCATION, PORT OF BRISBANE There has been no change in Government policy to improve urban public transport Mr. HOUSTON: I ask the Minister for but how far and how quickly we can Conservation, Marine and Aboriginal Affairs: bring this about will depend on what the In view of the promise of a political party Commonwealth has to offer in real money yesterday to move the Port of Brisbane down terms." the river to the bay, does the Brisbane City Council have responsibility for such a trans­ fer, or is it a State Government responsi­ bility? UNIVERSITY MATRICULATION REQUIREMENTS Mr. N. T. E. HEWITT: Over a period we have seen the Brisbane City Council trying Mr. P. Wood, pursuant to notice, asked to pass the buck on this issue by continually The Minister for Education,- claiming that it is a State Government When is it expected that university responsibility. Let me say that the matriculation requirements for 1973 will Government has more than played its be finalised? part in this matter, as it is now playing its part relative to the mitigation of flooding in Brisbane. Answer:- "The University of Queensland has Mr. HOUSTON: Mr. Speaker, I suggest to advised that, until further discussions are the Premier that he look at me, not at the held, it will not be possible to estimate Minister, and let the Minister answer the when university matriculation requirements question himself. for those completing secondary courses in 1973 will be finalised." Mr. SPEAKER: Order! Mr. HOUSTON: I ask the Minister for Conservation, Marine and Aboriginal Affairs ScHOOLs, SuB-NORMAL CmLDREN's this further question: Has the Brisbane City WELFARE ASSOCIATION Council power to move the Port of Bris­ bane-"Yes" or "No"? Mr. P. Wood, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Education,- Mr. N. T. E. HEWITT: No. ( 1) What are the details of the number Mr. HOUSTON: I also ask this question: of children attending schools operated by Did any spokesman for this political the Sub-Normal Children's Welfare party-- Association and the number of (a) quali­ fied and (b) unqualified teachers in these Government Members: Which political schools? party? (2) Will he give details of the amount Mr. SPEAKER: Order! provided from State Government funds for 1971-72 and estimated for 1972-73 Mr. HOUSTON: Did any spokesman for for sub-normal schools? this political party receive any promise from the State Government that it would move the Answers:- port to Moreton Bay-"Yes" or "No"? (1) "1,036 children. 82 teachers of Mr. PORTER: I rise to a point of order. whom 80 qualify to obtain maximum In asking his question the Leader of the departmental subsidy and two because of Opposition refers to "a political party". I lesser qualifications receive a lower ask him to name the party, and also to subsidy." establish that it is a political party. Questions Without Notice [15 MARCH 1973] Questions Without Notice 2949

Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The decision rests answer in silence. If the honourable member with the Minister as to whether he will for Lytton continues to interrupt, he will be answer the question or not. sent out. Mr. N. T. E. HEWITT: I will answer the Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: Whether the question. Let me say that we will co-operate question under discussion was asked by in every way with the Brisbane City Council a;rrangement, I do not know. All I am if it has any ideas that are worth while. As interested in is emphasising that this is a we know and as the Leader of the Opposition serious matter and that the Minister in charge knows, the shifting of the Port of Brisbane of police has made a statement concerning it. is not simply a matter of words. Some He did so in reply to a question asked by $600,000,000 has been invested in the the honourable member for Townsville South, Hamilton wharves and other port facilities, which highlighted the real seriousness of the so that it is not merely a matter of coming position. I think this is a matter about which in here and saying that the port can be not only members of this side of the House shifted. are concerned; I am sure that many people throughout Australia are deeply concerned POLICE ACTION AGAINST WARD MeNALLY that this situation can and does exist in the Federal Government. Mr. AIKENS: I ask the Minister for Works and Housing: Has his attention been drawn Mr. HODGES: I rise to a point of order. to an article in today's "Courier-Mail" where­ The Leader of the Opposition has made the in Mr. Ward McNally is reported as saying, accusation that I handed the question under inter alia, "I have lived in this country as a discussion to the honourable member for decent citizen for the last 23 years"? If so, Townsville South. can he inform the House if MeN ally was Opposition Members: That is right. convicted of criminal offences in Australia and sentenced to imprisonment with hard Mr. HODGES: I want that statement with­ labour as recently as 1960 and 1961? drawn. Mr. Bromley interjected. Mr. SPEAKER: Who do you say said this? Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I will not warn the honourable member for South Brisbane Mr. HODGES: The Leader of the Opposi­ again. tion made the statement that I handed the question to the honourable member for Mr. HODGES: To the best of my know­ Townsville South. ledge, that is correct. Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The Minister Mr. TUCKER: I ask the Premier: What is claims that the Leader of the Opposition the point in having welfare officers and alleged that a copy of the question was dedicated groups and societies who work for handed to the honourable member for the rehabilitation into society of those who Townsville South by the Minister. have gone astray and broken the law, and Mr. Houston: If the Minister did not do have been rightly forced to pay their debt to that, how did he know exactly what happened such society, when such a person who has 10 years ago? What a remarkable memory gone straight for the past 23 years can find the Minister has, being able to recall the his life and the lives of his family shamefully criminal 'record of every person in the State and indecently blasted by a ·Minister of this as far back as at least 10 years! Government under privilege purely to obtain some cheap political advantage against a Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The Leader of Federal Minister? the Opposition has been asked to withdraw the statement. That is all he has to do. Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: This is not a simple matter. On the contrary, it is a Mr. Houston: In conformity with your serious matter when a Commonwealth Min­ ruling, Sir, I withdraw the statement. ister has as his Press secretary a man who has a record of this nature. It is fair Mr. AIKENS: I rise to a point of order. enough to say that he has turned over a What would have been the attitude of the new leaf-I can accept that this may be A.L.P. if the Premier had appointed McNally so-but, on the other hand, the honourable as his Press seoretary? I got the information member for Townsville South has asked a from an A.L.P. member, if Opposition question to which the Minister has replied. members want to know.

Opposition Members interjected. OATH OR AFFIRMATION OF ALLEGIANCE BY MEMBERS OF pARLIAMENT Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I will not tolerate continued interruptions, which are coming Mr. NEWBERY: I ask the Premier: Has mainly from honourable members on my his attention been drawn to an article in left. In fairness to all, I endeavour to ensure the Mackay "Daily Mercury" of 9 March, that every honourable member is given the wherein it was reported that 12 Federal right to ask a question and to hear the A.L.P. members, including some Ministers, 2950 Questions Without Notice (15 MARCH 1973] Questions Without Notice refused to take the· oath of allegiance on to the Gold Coast area, particularly the the Bible? If so, can he inform the House Albert Shire and Numinbah Valley, where if at any time in the last 30 years any tourist traffic has increased enormously? member of this House has refused to take the oath on the Bible and, if so, what political Mr. CAMM: It is true that, through the party that member represented? Main Roads Department, the State Govern­ ment has spent a considerable amount of Mr. SPEAKER: Order! For the honour­ money on road works in Brisbane over the able member's information, members need past few years. It must be conceded, of not be sworn on the Bible. Any member course, that a large percentage of that money who so desires can make an affirmation. has come from Commonwealth aid funds. It happened in this House in the days when The expenditure of additional money in either Mr. Paterson represented Bowen. Brisbane or the Gold Coast area will depend largely upon the policy of the present Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: Mr. Speaker, Federal Government in its allocation of I would be quite happy to answer the question. Commonwealth aid money. If it stipulates Mr. SPEAKER: I disallow the question. that money must be spent in the urban areas, I also inform honourable members on my it will be spent there; on the other hand, if left that I am giving them a final warning. it says money can be spent in other areas, If they continue to interrupt I will order we will do so. The Main Roads Department, those who offend to leave the Chamber. from its own funds, will continue to spend money in the City of Brisbane in accordance with traffic demands, just as it will do in U.S.S.R. VISIT BY DUKE OF EDINBURGH the Gold Coast and Albert Shire areas. Mr. MARGINSON: I ask the Premier: In vit;w of his past performances of regularly DISCUSSIONS WITH LORD MAYOR ON accusmg any person who may visit the QTY OF BRISBANE LEGISLATION U.S.S.R. of being a Communist or one of the subversive element, has he read that His Mr. MURRAY: I ask the Minister for Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh Local Government: In view of constant proposes to visit Russia in the near future? public criticism levelled at him and the When will the Premier break his silence Government by Lord Mayor J ones and his with respect to this proposed visit? Left-wing brothers as a result of the Govern­ ment's decision to reduce the number of city Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I disallow the wards, will he inform the House whether dis­ question. cussions were held with the Lord Mayor Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: I would like before the amending legislation was intro­ to answer it. duced? Further, can he indicate the tenor or result of any consultations with the Lord Mr. SPEAKER: The question is disallowed. Mayor or his Labor Party aldermen?

NEW PRIMARY ScHOOL, PALM BEACH Mr. McKECHNIE: Discussions were held with the Lord Mayor Gn certain aspects of' Mr. HINZE: I ask the Minister for Works the City of Brisbane Act Amendment Bill. and Housing: In view of the huge increase I announced this when introducing it. The in population in the Palm Beach-Burleigh Lord Mayor made very clear indeed his Heads area, and the fact that the Currumbin opinion on two of the three principles in the State School has an enrolment of 866 pupils Bill. As honourable members know, three and the Burleigh Heads State School an principles were involved. First, there was enrolment of 950 children, will he inform the superannuation scheme, with which every­ the House when it is proposed to commence body agreed; second, there was the reduc­ the construction of the new Palm Beach tion in the number of wards; and third, there primary school? was the increase in the powers of the alder­ men. Discussions were held with the Lord Mr. HODGES: Tenders for the site works Mayor on two of these three principles, and for the new school closed on Tuesday last. various aldermen from both sides of the Planning is well in hand, and we hope to council interviewed me. Some of these dis­ have the school completed for the 1974 cussions were held in my office and others school year. elsewhere. Mr. Bromley interjected. AssiSTANCE FOR RoAD WoRKs, GoLD CoAST AND ALBERT SHIRE AREAS Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I now warn the honourable member for South Brisbane under Mr. HINZE: I ask the Minister for Mines Standing Order 123A. He is very persistent and Main Roads: As this benevolent Country­ in his interjections today. Liberal State Government has provided such magnificent assistance to the Brisbane City Mr. McKECHNIE: As I informed the Council in the construction of roads, freeways, House when the Bill was being debated, the and bridges, culminating in the opening of the discussions between the Lord Mayor and me Captain Cook Bridge, will he now divert were, at his request, to be confidential so some funds from the City of Brisbane area far as the news media were concerned. I Questions Without Notice [15 MARCH 1973] Warehousemen's Liens Bill 2951

continue to honour his request that our dis­ FORM OF QUESTION cussions be so treated. In those circum­ stances, therefore, I cannot reveal the exact Mr. BALDWIN (Redlands) proceeding to nature of my discussions with him. As I give notice of a question to the Minister for have said, discussions were held individually Justice- with the Lord Mayor and also with various Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I am the best judge other members of the council. Other than of what is sub judice in this House. I am saying that they were at times at variance guided by "May" and Standing Orders. The with one another, in view of my assurance subject matter of the honourable member's to the Lord Mayor that I would not reveal question does not come within the purview the confidential nature of our discussions I of the Minister for Justice. do not wish to deal with the matter any further. EDUCATIONAL MEMORIAL FUNDS DISPOSAL BILL MEETING OF STANDING ORDERS COMMITTEE INITIATION Mr. W. D. HEWITI: Mr. Speaker, as the forms of the House do not allow members to Hon. Sir ALAN FLETCHER (Cunningham ask questions of you, I direct a question to -Minister for Education and Cultural the Premier and commend its sentiments to Activities): I move- your tender mercies. Can he advise the "That the House will, at its present House when the proposed meeting of the sitting, resolve itself into a Committee of Standing Orders Committee will take place, the Whole to consider introducing a Bill to and will he initiate consideration of extensive provide for the disposal of trust funds held amendments to the Standing Orders? If so, subject to the Educational Memorial Funds will the comments of all honourable members Declaration Act of 1963 and to repeal that be invited? Act." Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: This is, of Motion agreed to. course, a matter within Mr. Speaker's juris­ diction. I have no doubt that he will advise NAMBOUR LIBRARY BILL members of the Standing Orders Committee when they are to be called together. INITIATION Mr. Sherrington: This is a sort of quiet Hon. Sir ALAN FLETCHER (Cunningham direction to you, Mr. Speaker. -Minister for Education and Cultural Activities): I move- Mr. SPEAKER: Order! Unless the honour­ "That the House will, at its present able member restrains himself, I shall be sitting, resolve itself into a Committee of giving him a quiet direction. the Whole to consider introducing a Bill to provide with respect to the maintenance of a public library service by the Council "P" PLATES ON MOTOR VEHICLES of the Shire of Maroochy; to provide for Mr. R. JONES: I ask the Minister for ilie ratification of certain dealings with Transport: Is it a fact that the Government land held by the Council for that purpose; is proposing to have "P" plates displayed and to repeal certain provisions of the only by drivers of motor vehicles who have Schools of Arts (Winding Up and Transfer) had their licences cancelled and then regained Acts, 1960 to 1961." them? Is it further proposed that drivers Motion agreed to. who have been convicted and fined on breathalyser charges will be issued with and obliged to display "B" plates on their motor WAREHOUSEMEN'S LIENS BILL vehicles when their licences are reinstated? INITIATION IN COMMITTEE Mr. K. W. HOOPER: The honourable (The Chairman of Committees, Mr. Lickiss, member knows quite well that his question Mt. Coot-tha, in the chair) relates to a matter of policy. I refuse to Hon. W. E. KNOX (Nundah-Minister answer questions that relate to Government for Justice) (12.10 p.m.): I move- policy. "That a Bill be introduced to amend the Opposition Members interjected. law relating to warehousing of goods and to consequentially amend the Disposal of Mr. K. W. HOOPER: It is a matter of Uncollected Goods Act of 1967 in a certain policy and will be dealt with by legislation. particular." I think that all honourable members are aware of that. Numerous requests have been received from warehousemen for the introduction of legis­ Mr. R. JONES: We cannot get the informa­ lation to embrace the warehousing and tion in the House; we have to read it in the S•torage industry. It will be recalled that newspapers. there was an Act in this field some years ago which was repealed when another Act Mr. SPEAKER: Order! was introduced. 2952 Warehousemen's Liens Bill [15 MARCH 1973] Warehousemen's Liens Bill

It has been claimed that the Disposal of Repair or other Treatment but not Uncollected Goods Act of 1967 which deals Re-delivered and for purposes connected with the disposal of goods accepted for therewith." inspection, custody, s,torage, repair or other This is emphasised in section 31-Inter­ treatment is completely unsuited to both the pretation, subsection (3) of which refers bailor and the bailee in warehousing trans­ to what the bailee can do when problems actions. Warehousemen, when accepting arise. I admit the situation has occurred goods for storage, as distinct from goods when a bailee could not obtain enough money accepted for inspection, repair or other treat­ or enough equity because of the value of the ment, often have no knowledge of the con­ goods. I should have threement, and the bailee says, "You pay warehouseman must give written notice of up o; I keep your goods." I wo~der what his intention to sell to the owner, any provisions will be included under this measure person liable as a debtor, the grantee or any to protect the bailor in those circumstances. person having an interes't in the goods. The I have also been informed of agreements notice must state that, if the charges are not for storage that specifically cover t?e storage paid on or before a date not less than 30 aspect but say nothing about redelivery even days from the date of the notice, the goods though the bailor honestly thought that the will be sold. The sale must be advertised goods would be stored and finally redelivered. in a newspaper circulating throughout the However, when this point is contested: the State or in the district where the goods are warehouseman again says, "No, there IS no deposited not less than 28 days before the way in the world that that is my obligation." sale. I will be very interested to see what the The Bill provides for the buyer of the Bill has to say on these points. goods to acquire a good title to the goods I admit that problems have arisen. It and for payment of any surplus from the sale could be that too few alternatives ar~ pr

Mr. WRIGHT: Fair enough. I do hope I wish to cite the cases of two migrant that this will be so, because the existing families who recently came to Australia. One provisions are that a notice must be clearly :was a Dutch family named Wyngaard, who shown on the premises, that notice must migrated with their life-long possessions and, be given to the bailor that the arrears are after disembarking from the ship in Sydney, due, that a court order can be obtained entered into an agreement with a warehouse when they are in excess of $100, and that proprietor to have their goods stored until six months after the notice has been given they found satisfactory accommodation. On the bailee can then say, "I am going to sell their arrival in Gladstone they resided at these goods so you had better do something the Boles Street Caravan Park. They are a about it." Notices are then put in the Press family of excellent standing, and have now and in the gazette and finally the matter is moved into the home of their choice. The taken to public auction. husband, who is a tradesman, sent his To me, all these things are red tape, but wife to Sydney to collect their goods. When I think they are necessary because many and she arrived she found no sign of them. They varied things can happen, not so much had disappeared. because a person purposely leaves goods The agreement that they entered into with stored but because a dispute arises over the the warehouseman specified that if the goods amount being charged. I believe it is essential were either stolen or lost or had strayed that the agreement issued by the warehouse­ they could recover only up to $50 under man should specifically state the obligations an insurance cover. I have put this matter and rights of all persons concerned. The into the hands of the New South Wales cost should be specifically stated. I think it Commissioner of Police, a gentleman named should outline exactly what the warehouse­ Hanson, who, no doubt, will uphold the man intends to do, exactly what his obliga­ family's fine tradition and show he is an tions are and exactly what he will do if excellent Police Commissioner. the bailor does not meet his requirements. If this is not done, disputes will continue to On a more serious note, I ask the Minister occur, and these disputes are very hard to to request his Cabinet colleague who controls settle. migration to Queensland to pay particular attention to the storage of migrants' possessions As the Minister said, the bailee often can­ so that migrants will not be fleeced by ware­ not get his equity. I agree, because sometimes house proprietors. I do not accuse any the article in question might be worth $30 warehouse proprietor of theft; but a business or $40 and to dispute the matter in court might cost $150. So the person who owns is only as good as its supervision, and the goods leaves them there and simply says, unfortunately there is not sufficient super­ "All right, you can keep them." Consequently, vision in the warehouse business. numerous problems arise in eventually selling The second case to which I refer is a these articles. family named Forbes. They came to I do not know exactly how the Opposition Queensland from their home in Northern stands in regard to this measure. As I have Ireland not far from Belfast. They left said, I have received complaints that matters Northern Ireland last September, and have are not exactly right and that difficulties now settled in Gladstone. The run-around arise under the Disposal of Uncollected that they were given by licensed customs Goods Act. But I hope that consideration and baggage agents is unbelievable. When has been given to the rights of all concerned a representative of a transport and baggage and not just to the warehouseman. We will company asked for the bill of lading for study the details of this Bill when it is printed. their goods, it was readily given to him. I will be very pleased to hear what the But then they were told that their household Minister has to say on the questions I have possessions were on another ship and that raised. some of their personal luggage was in storage. They were forced to purchase Mr. HANSON (Port Curtis) (12.20 p.m.): blankets, chairs, a table, crockery and napery, I should like to add a few remarks on the and they suffered a great deal of incon­ measure before the Committee. The Opposi­ venience. tion shadow Minister has dealt thoroughly I claim that insufficient protection is with the matter, but in view of a few recent afforded the person who stores his goods in cases that have come to my notice I think a warehouse. It is not good enough for it is imperative that I should inform the the MinisteT to talk about a lien on goods Committee of some of the traps that some and not show some interest in the provision constituents of mine have recently fallen into. of insurance cover for persons who store their goods. The Minister is concerned for Quite obviously the Minister and his Gov­ the warehouseman who might not be able ernment aTe concerned only for the pro­ to receive a just return for p'wperty left prietor of a warehouse and are not worried in a suitcase. I am more concerned for at all about persons who leave their goods in the person who goes along to a warehouse his care. The Government's attitude is that to collect his goods and finds that it has if the goods are either lost or stolen, or been stored in a smelly corner and become stray, that is just too bad. riddled with cockroaches, or affected by 2954 Warehousemen's Liens Bill [15 MARCH 1973] Warehousemen's Liens Bill mildew in humid weather. &lme warehouse­ from one camp to another and were shifting men show no care whatever for goods left our family goods from, say, Ballarat in in their possession. Victoria to Queensland, we had to arrange The Opposition will examine this Bill with a local transport firm to consign our with a view to ensuring that persons who clothes, furniture and other goods. If the store goods in warehouses will not suffer firm did not have a branch in Queensland it either inconvenience or financial loss. was fairly easy for a Queenslander returning to Amberley or one of the other Queensland The circumstances of the two instances bases to contact the appropriate ,transport I have mentioned are absolutely scandalous. firm. They raise in my mind grave fears of dis­ honesty. Both parties have been seriously However, if a Western Australian who was stationed at Ballarat was transferred to ~isadvantaged financially. Perhaps a detailed mventory of goods stored should be insisted Queensland, he did not know where to look upon so thar the legislation could be geared for the firm concerned because it did not to ensure that bailors are not financially dis­ have an office here. The carrier would advantaged. Many people coming from have an unidentifiable arrangement with overseas bring with them jewels antiques Wridgways or some other interstate carrier collections, books and so on that 'have bee~ to pick up the goods and store them. Some in the family for centuries. Some of the people spent two to three months running smart alecs in warehouses examine them and, around Brisbane and writing letters to soon after-- Ballarat in Victoria or Rathmines in New South Wales, asking the transport firms where The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honourable their goods were. They would usually be member is getting too far away from the found in a store at Rocklea, whereupon the matter under discussion. I ask him to come owner was charged storage fees. back to it. If we are to provide that someone can recoup just charges for storing goods, we Mr. HANSON: With due respect, Mr. should also place close restrictions on the Lickiss-- method of levying charges. What are really The CHAIRMAN: With due respect, just charges? Who is to say what they should nothing. be? Recently I handled a case resulting from a traffic accident in which the S.G.I.O. is Mr. HANSON: I always obey your rulings, involved. In this instance, a towing company Mr. Lickiss, but at the same time I feel on the south side towed away a vehicle that that I am quite in the right in putting up was involved in the accident and stored it. a fight for some people who come here and A spokesman for the company said to the find themselves disadvantaged. owner of the vehicle, "You owe us $42 for storage." The owner said, "I haven't got $42, The CHAIRMAN: Order! I hope the hon­ but I am claiming on the State Government ourable member is not trying to argue with Insurance Office." The spokesman then said, the Chair. I am saying that he is well away "I will charge you $84 and if you get that from the provisions of this Bill. No-one is amount from the S.G.I.O. you can keep $42 stopping him from arguing on any provision and give me $42." at all in relation to people generally, but I hope he will do it at the appropriate time Was a just charge fixed in such circum­ and under the appropriate heading. He is stances? Will this legislation cover practices out of order at the moment. such as that by tow-truck operators? Legislation governing tow-truck operators is Mr. HANSON: I commenced my point to be introduced, but I point out that they by saying, "With due respect," You know tow vehicles away and also store them, and quite well, Mr. Lickiss, the respect I have then charge a fee for doing so. One operator for the Chair. on the south side is doing remarkable business in this way. He has hundreds of cars stored The CHAIRMAN: I do. on his premises, for which he charges large amounts per week. He is the one I mentioned Mr. HANSON: I realise the difficult and as saying, "If you can get extra money out onerous nature of your task, Mr. Lickiss, and of your insurance company, I will increase while you may think I am getting away my charge." He is working this as a racket. from the Bill, you will, I feel, being a very humane person, allow me to make a plea Mr. Frawley: How much is he charging? on behalf of the ordinary working person who has been the victim of malicious, vicious Mr. BURNS: I would have to go to my warehousemen. room to get that information. I did not notice that this Bill was listed first on the Mr. BURNS (Lytton) (12.27 p.m.): The Business Paper. honourable member for Port Curtis has Mr. Frawley: Some of them charge 75 cents clearly covered the aspects of insurance a day. cover for damage to, and the loss of, property stored by cartage contractors or Mr. BURNS: The man I am talking about interstMe removalists. I wish to refer to a was charged $42 for three weeks. When he problem that confronted many married said he could not pay that much, the tow­ servicemen. When we were being transferred truck operator said, "I will charge you $84. Warehousemen's Liens Bill [15 MARCH 1973] Warehousemen's Liens Bill 2955

You try to get it back from the insurance I ask the Minister to seriously consider company. If you do, I will take $42 and laying down what are just charges, the basis you can keep $42." As it turned out, on which they should be set and how they the insurance company did pay the increased can be regulated. amount, so the racketeer got $42 and the car-owner also got $42, so he would not Hon. W. E. KNOX (Nundah-Minister for complain. It is all right if a person has Justice) (12.34 p.m.), in reply: I thank an insurance company to fall back onto, honourable members for their contributions. but it is fraud. The Bill will answer most of the questions they have raised, but there are some that What about the average person who has it will not cover, so I shall deal briefly no way of paying these charges? Many with them. young working men buy cars that are virtually "bombs". Their condition is such that they The rights of people under this type of only just pass the roadworthiness certificate legislation are paramount in our thoughts. It check. These young men must take out is because of the confusion and misunder­ third-party insurance cover, but many of standing that have arisen in certain areas, them cannot afford comprehensive cover. not only for warehousemen but also for Even if such an owner has comprehensive their clients, that it is necessary to vi.rtually cover and is involved in an accident, he re-enact this legislation. It was the law of is still in trouble because the insurance the land and it was repealed in 1967. We company says, "The car is only worth $150, then thought that the new Act would cover and there is more than $100 worth of all the eventualities that were covered by damage. We don't want to repair it. We the former Warehousemen's Liens Act. would rather pay you out." In one case Mr. Wright: It is strange that it does not, that I know of, a person insured his car in view of all the references made to it. for $150. He was involved in an accident which caused more than $150 worth of Mr. KNOX: Yes, but that is probably damage to his car. The insurance company because it deals with operations of a different said he was 20 per cent to blame and type. Goods left to be stored for a certain that the other motorist was 80 per cent time whilst they are repaired, or perhaps to blame. It worked out the result, and have something extra added to them, come this man finished up with no car and still under the Disposal of Uncollected Goods owing the tow-truck operator a substanial Act. They are left by arrangement, and those sum. Finally he asked if he could have who leave them usually want them back as the battery or the tyres so that he could soon as the work required on them has been sell them and thus get something out of it. completed. An example is a pair of shoes The tow-truck operator said, "No," and left for repair. The owner may want them added, "Look, mate, you are up for a lot of back urgently, or by the end of the week, storage to me." and he recovers them at his convenience. As I said before, if this Bill is designed In the warehousing operation, people have to ensure that the man providing the storage goods stored for what are often indefinite facilities can take action to get his money, periods. In warehouses round Brisbane today something must be done to set the charges there are goods that have been stored for in such a way that the ordinary citizen many years and on which the storage charges cannot be robbed. The man providing the have been met monthly, quarterly or on some storage should not be able to say, "Let's other regular basis. double the charge and see how we get on I am speaking now of repositories, not with the insurance company." A set charge merchandise warehouses. Goods are stored or some standard should be laid down in in such repositories for many reasons. They regulations under this Act so that the shysters may be owned by people who left the country in the community cannot manipulate the Act years ago intending to return but who have to their own advantage. decided, because of their particular circum­ Mr. Wright: All this sort of thing should stances, not to return. Their effects remain be stipulated on the agreement to store. stored, cared for, and kept free from vermin year after year. Mr. BURNS: A man whose car is towed Mr. W. D. Hewitt: They could be public away following an accident is not worried servants on transfer. about looking at the back of the little form when the tow-truck operator says, "Sign this Mr. KNOX: Yes, or servicemen who do and let me take your car away." It is not not know when they will return to a particular until he looks at the form a couple of place. Servicemen may be transferred all days later-it could be a couple of weeks over the world for long periods, and they do or more later if he is in hospital-that not want to take with them articles that he reads the details printed on the back may be family heirlooms with considerable of it. Surely set charges could be laid down. sentimental value. They have them stored A seriously injured person could be in hos­ because they want them to be cared for. pital for months and, if he is single and Leaving articles in warehouses for that has no family, his car could just sit in reason is quite different from leaving goods the operator's yard while the storage charges for repair, or some other form of attention, are building up to a really substantial sum. and return fairly soon. The whole purpose 2956 Warehousemen's Liens Bill [15 MARCH 1973] Warehousemen's Liens Bill of storing in repositories is to leave goods notifying people in a public notice and for as long as it is possible to do so in advertising that he wants his charges met order to meet the convenience of the owner. and intends disposing of the goods, there is The present legislation needs re-enactment a reasonable chance that an interested party, because in some cases, after goods have been not necessarily the person who made the stored for indefinite periods and the charges storage arrangement originally, will be able have been levied and paid, payment of the to locate the goods, which he had not accounts ceases. Very often the person to hitherto been aware were missing, or even whom the accounts are sent is an itinerant, in existence. So the provision is very and the last account is returned marked important to people in the community as "Address Unknown". It may well be that well as to the warehouseman. such a person has met with an accident, and Quite often, of course, the goods are just those concerned with his affairs are not aware boxes of old clothes in which no-one is that he has goods stored in a warehouse. It interested, anyway, and •these are taking up may take some time for this fact to be valuable space that could be used by other discovered. Often people arrange for the people. But it often happens that valuable accounts to be paid through others, such as articles of furniture-as I said earlier, family a brother, sister, mother or father, and they heirlooms, and so on-are stored, and the may not be aware that payment has not been warehouseman is not aware of .their origins attended to by their relatives. Goods thus other •than the person with whom he made the accumulate in storage, and the warehouseman original contract. has no reasonable way of disposing of them. The proposal will work both ways. The This type of disposal is quite different from warehouseman will have a reasonably simple the disposal of a motor-car that has been method of getting rid of goods for which he left for repairs or painting, or articles such has received no payment for storage. as shoes and clothing that have been dry­ Although the intrinsic value of the goods cleaned. stored might be well below the storage The disposal of what appear to be unwanted charges, .they may have been of considerable goods left in repositories is a major problem value to the person who originally made the for warehousemen, as well as being an incon­ arrangement. However, they no longer have venience to beneficiaries who do not even any real value to anybody, and it is desired know that goods are stored. Until a ware­ that they be removed. At the same time, houseman takes some action such as as I explained, there could be interested advertising that he has goods in his ware­ parties in •the community who wish to know house and wishes to have his charges met, that they exist, and if the process that I quite a number of people are not aware that have outlined is followed, they will have a there are goods in storage. That may seem chance of discovering that the goods exist strange, but it is true. and are subject to certain arrangements. For example, a brother or a son may not be aware Mr. Casey: What happens if part of the of the fact that such arrangements have been goods is furniture that is, unknown to the made. warehouseman, still under hire-purchase? Goods are still stored in warehouses in Mr. KNOX: There are other actions that Australia that were stored there originally may be taken. If the goods are not owned before World War I. Men went away to by the person who made the arrangements the war and made arrangements for their to store them, they can be repossessed. goods to be stored. They settled in another country and did not come back to Australia. Mr. Casey: But the warehouseman accepts For various reasons, they did not wish the them in good faith and does not know that. goods to be brought to their place of resi­ dence, and they continued paying the storage Mr. KNOX: Indeed he does, but he also charges. In cases such as that, the day finds that, in good faith, the owner will come eventually arrives when somebody loses and collect them, so he will not have them interest and asks that the goods be disposed any more. That situation is taken care of of, or perhaps simply loses interest in paying under other legislation. the accounts. The whole problem is that the accumula­ The ques•tion of disputes has been raised. tion of apparently unwanted goods is an I do not know what disputes could arise, embarrassment to the warehouseman, who because in fact there is really no area for still has to keep them vermin-proof, and so disputes relative to the disposal of goods on, because he has other goods stored next under storage. to them for other people who are paying Mr. Wright interjected. the charges. It is obvious to him that there is someone in the community who would Mr. KNOX: If the honourable member is like to know about these goods, but he does referring to the original agreement, a person not know anything about them; he knows makes .the contract for storage with the ware­ only the person with whom he made the b,ouseman. If he does not wish to enter into contract of storage, and that person may tne contract offered, he does not store his suddenly disappear and not take any interest goods with that warehouseman. in the goods. Under the proposed Bill, once Mr. Wright: Very often such persons do the warehouseman begins the process of not understand their obligations. Warehousemen's Liens Bill [15 MARCH 1973] Arbitration Bill 2957

Mr. KNOX: Well, just how far are we Mr. KNOX: I would say no. The honour­ to go in the role of "Big Brother"? Persons able member is asking for an off-the-cuff who contract are expected to read the opinion. The only contract he has is with small print. They can always get advice the person who has made the arrangement from a solicitor as to their obligations. They for storage. In the event of some hazard are not forced to accept an agreement for which was thought might occur, the person storage; they are not even forced to make arranging the storage may well have made storage arrangements. Such arrangements provision for somebody to guarantee the pay­ are made under a perfectly normal every­ ments. That does happen. In the event of day type of contract for storage, which pro­ the charges not being met, the guarantor will vides for the payment of the storage account. attend to them. If the guarantor fails to meet The person storing the goods may have to his obligations, then the warehouseman has supply references to the person doing the recourse to this legislation. I doubt that storing that he is capable of meeting com­ there is any other way he could get equity. mitments over a long period. But these conditions are not forced on people. They I have reason to believe that many of the do it of their own choice and volition. They articles which have been stored in warehouses have the advantage of all the advice in for many years, and which are causing the world before they make these agreements embarrassment to warehouses, are of little for storage, so disputes should not arise. value. Most people make a point of mention­ ing in their wills and other documents the There could well be room for dispute location of particular goods that are of subsequent to the disposal of the goods. This any value to the family. is provided for in the legislation. After the warehouseman goes through the process of The fixation of just charges is not a matter public notice and letting everybody know, for this Bill. As I pointed out, storage under and the surplus funds from the sale after these circumstances involves the making of a the deduction of the charges have been contract-something that is quite voluntary lodged with the Public Curator, somebody and a matter of choice. It is a fairly com­ might come to light-perhaps the original petitive industry and it is easy to shop around person who made the storage arrangements­ to make suitable storage arrangements. I and dispute whether the goods had been do not think a schedule of charges for storage disposed of correctly. This is a normal would be justified. common-law problem and there are the usual Motion (Mr. Knox) agreed to. avenues of contesting any particular issue. Resolution reported. I think all honourable members can recall a famous case in Brisbane which concerned gold bars which were stored. FIRST READING A Government Member: Thomas Brown. Bill presented and, on motion of Mr. Knox, read a first time. Mr. Hanson: Fazel Deen. Mr. KNOX: That is the one. I do not ARBITRATION BILL want to go through all the personalities involved. The gold bars were alleged to have INITIATION IN COMMITTEE been given to a firm to store in its safe. When (The Chairman of Committees, Mr. Lickiss, the man came to collect his gold bars after Mt. Coot-tha, in the chair) many years, they were not there. That does not come specifically under the provisions Hon. W. E. KNOX (Nundah-Minister for of the Bill, but that sort of thing can be con­ Justice) (12.52 p.m.): I move- tested in a court of law. That case went to "That a Bill be introduced to consolidate the Supreme Court for determination. I do and amend the law relating to arbitration." not see any difficulty about disputes. There On 26 September 1972 I initiated in Com­ are many avenues by which they can be mittee a Bill embodying recommendations of resolved. the Law Reform Commission, the principal Mr. Wright: When introducing the Bill purpose of which was to consolidate and you stressed the need for the warehouseman amend the law relating to commercial arbitra­ to be able to obtain equity in the goods if tion contained in sections 2 to 21 of the they were not of high value. How could he Interdict Act of 1867. Subsequently advice possibly obtain equity in goods if in fact the was received that Federal Cabinet had bailor cannot be found? Where does he decided to accede to the Convention on the obtain equity? Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards adopted by the United Mr. KNOX: He does not. Nations Conference on International Com­ Mr. Wright interjected. mercial Arbitration held in New York in 1958. Mr. KNOX: The only arrangement he has Upon examination, it was found that the made is with the person who has made the contract for storage. provisions of the Bill initiated in Committee relating to the recognition and enforcement Mr. Wright: Can he apply to get something of foreign awards were not fully in accord out of an estate? with those of the Convention. In view of 95 2958 Arbitration Bill [15 MARCH 1973] Arbitration Bill

the magnitude of the changes necessary to Similar legislation has been introduced in make these provisions comply with the Con­ New South Wales and Victoria as well as vention, it was decided that the Bill initiated in Great Britain. in Committee be allowed to lapse and that The Opposition also accepts the idea that this Bill be introduced in substitution. Apart arbitrators with particular expertise should from this matter and a few very minor hear and resolve disputes in certain specialised changes, this Bill is identical with the pre­ fields. At the same time, however, we are vious Bill in ail other respects. concerned about the costs involved. One of the principal provisions of the In accordance with notice given last year, Bill is the presumption that a reference will the Opposition had intended to move some be to a single arbitrator but where the amendments to the Arbitration Bill. Now, reference is to two arbitrators it is implied of course, we will need to closely examine that they will appoint an umpire. the Bill to ascertain whether or not our The Bill binds the Crown in the same proposed amendments are any longer necess­ manner as any other party and will pe.rmit ary. the Court to appoint arbitrators or umpires Members of the Opposition believe that in certain circumstances. Provision is made a small party to a commercial dispute for an arbitrator or umpire to have a could be called upon to bear a tremendous discretionary power to delive•r interim awards cost. As is known, an arbitrator can set and for awards to be in writing and show his own fee, and, unlike the normal legal the reasons of the arbitrator or umpire. system, under which judges' salaries are paid by the State, in commercial arbitration the The Bill further provides for an award parties can be ordered to pay the arbitrator's to be enforced in the same manner as a fee. We believe that this system should be judgment, for the regulation of the conduct altered and that the State should also meet of proceedings, the taxation of arbitrator's all costs of commercial arbitration, includ­ or umpire's fees and the assessment and ing those incurred in the recording of payment of costs generally. arbitration hearings. The provisions of the Bill which deal The Opposition will adopt a wait-and-see with the recognition and enforcement of attitude. It realises that under the United foreign awards are based on the articles Nations Convention the various reciprocal of the United Nations Convention. Similar arrangements are no longer necessary. We legislation has been enacted in Tasmania do not intend to try to gain political advan­ and the Australian Capital Territory and tage from this matter, but we hope that draft legislation exists in Victoria. the Minister will consider our amendments and agree with us that they will go a long Whereas previously enforcement of foreign way towards safeguarding the rights of the awards in Queensland was dependent on smaller person. After all, multi-national reciprocal arrangements being made with groups can deliberately cause delays in the other countries, the provisions of this Bill hearing of commercial disputes, and, as well, will enable foreign awards of Convention can afford to engage expensive counsel. The countries to be enforced in Queensland in result is likely to be that the smaller parties the same manner as a Queensland award, will be forced to reach a compromise-to subject, of course, to certain conditions. settle out of court, as it were. They will The principal differences between these say, "We cannot afford to match your costs, provisions of this Bill and those of the because we know that the arbitrator might superseded Bill are that this Bill is narrower order each of us to pay our own costs, or in application (relating only to Convention 50 per cent of the costs. Therefore, we will countries) whilst the requirements for recogni­ settle." tion are less stringent. The Opposition believes that the legisla­ tion contains a number of flaws, so it will I commend the motion to the Committee. examine it very closely. Mr. WRIGHT (Rockhampton) (12.55 Hon. W. E. KNOX (Nundah-Minister p.m.): As the Minister has said, the earlier for Justice) (12.58 p.m.), in reply: I will Arbitration Bill was introduced in Septem­ be very interested to see the Opposition's ber of last year. At that time Opposition amendment as to costs. I should point out, members spoke on it at length, and I have however, that the costs of arbitration can no intention of traversing again the points be enormously high, and I think that a that were raised then. Nevertheless, I think pretty indeterminate sort of situation will some matters are worth repeating. arise if the State is required to meet them. The Opposition accepts the need to mod­ After all, people do reach agreements about ernise and improve our commercial arbitra­ an arbitrator, and if they do not want to tion system, and honestly believes that the be a party to the agreement in the first measure now under debate will achieve this place they will not meet the costs. modernisation. The Opposition is aware Mr. Wright: Surely the way out would of the fact that this measure has been asked be to let the parties opt out of arbitration. for by the Bar Association and the Queens­ Mr. KNOX: That is true. land Law Society, and was also recom­ mended by the Law Reform Commission. Mr. Wright: But they will not be able to. State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill 2959

Mr. KNOX: Yes, they will. Indeed, the the-refore of these amendments is to clarify whole purpose of commercial arbitration is and to permit a more effective implementa­ to ensure that at the very last point of tion of the provisions of the original legisla­ no return, so to speak, when all possible tion and to ensure that appropriate regula­ compromises have been exhausted, a referee tions might be promulgated to assist in this will be available. This is determined before regard. the contract is entered into. If we did not The 1971 legislation repealed The State have arbitration, these things could drag on Development and PubHc Works Organisation for years under common law. Act 1938-1970 and gave effect to the Gov­ Mr. Wright: If arbitration is included in ernment policy to provide for a system of the contract, you cannot go to a court of regional planning, regional co-ordination and Jaw. environmental control. 'I'he spirit of the legislation was designed on the basis of Mr. KNOX: It always is included in the co-operation and co-ordination of effort and contract. Where else would it be? We it is for this express purpose that provision have legislation of this type that does away was made for the establishment of such with unnecessary writing in contracts, so bodies as the Environmental Control Council, that this does not have to be written in. regional co-ordination councils and project Mr. Wright: Do you agree that it could boards. The Act also allowed for an approach be costly by going to arbitration? to the planning and programming of public works which represented a significant step Mr. KNOX: Very costly indeed, and that towards dealing with the problems of State is why people do not generally resort to it. and regional development. But there is provision for it in case they reach the point of no return. In drafting legislation of such an innovatory nature it was recognised that it would be Motion (Mr. Knox) agreed to. opportune to draft the Act in general terms Resolution reported. in order that it could be amended at future times in the light of experience gained in FIRST READING the practical application of the Act. In this respect, during the past year, the various Bill presented and, on motion of Mr. Knox, read a first time. statutory provisions of the Act were reviewed and their application in a practical sense [Sitting suspended from 1.1 to 2.15 p.m.] was more fully investigated. Draft regula­ tions to the Act were also prepared. Legal advice was sought in these matters and it STATE AND REGIONAL PLANNING was suggested that certain amendments be AND DEVELOPMENT, PUBLIC WORKS enacted to ensure that the intention of the ORGANIZATION AND ENVIRON­ original legislation could be pursued with MENTAL CONTROL ACT AMEND­ more certainty and clarity with respect to MENT BILL the establishment and operation of regions, INITIATION IN COMMITTEE regional co-ordination councils, State develop­ ment areas and project boards. (Mr. W. D. Hewitt, Chatsworth, in the chair) I now propose to describe the proposed Hon. J. BJELKE-PETERSEN (Barambah amendments in the order in which they -Premier) (2.16 p.m.): I move- appear in the Act. Part V, Regional "That a Bill be introduced to amend Co-ordination, requires consideration in the State and Regional Planning and regard to regional definition and provisions Development, Public Works Organization relating to regional co-ordination councils. and Environmental Control Act 1971 in The boundaries of regions are not necessarily certain particulars." static in nature but may change over time due to innumerable forces associated with Honourable members will by now, I am development and growth. This, of course, sure, have examined again the principal Act was realised when the original Act was in relation to the excellent outline of that drafted. However, subsequent legal advice Act and the proposals for its implementation has indicated that more precise provisions in the annual report of 1972 of the Co­ should be made to cater for this requirement. ordinator-Geneml's Department. Should any honourable member not have done so, let For this reason provision is to be made in me commend that worth-while exercise for the Bill specifically to vary or terminate a a better understanding of the Act and its declared region which may no longer fulfil aims and aspirations. a useful or required purpose, and section 38 of the Act is to be amended accordingly. The proposed amendments do not in any It is envisaged that regulations will be drafted way vary the espoused principles of the prescribing a procedure to be followed to existing legislation. The amendments are of give effect to these matters. It is proposed a machinery nature only and are introduced in such regulations that local authorities and in this Bill as a result of legal advice other interested bodies will be given the tendered when proposed regulations were opportunity to consider the regions proposed being examined and when ce·rtain administra­ to be declared and make submissions to the tive requirements were indicated. The purpose Minister through the Co-ordinator-General 2960 State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973) Planning, &c., Bill

on these proposed regions. A similar pro­ It was proposed that regional co-ordination vision regarding the declaration, variation, or councils would appoint executive and advisory termination of a State development area, committees, a power which has been conferre~ under Division I, Part VI, Planned Develop­ upon the Environmental Control Counc1l ment, has been written into the 1971 legisla­ under section 34 of the 1971 legislation. tion; however, here, due to an apparent Advisory committees may comprise regional ambiguity in the wording, sections 48 and co-ordination council members, experts and 49 are proposed to be amended to conform other interested parties. This provision is with the proposed wording of section 38. now to be spelt out in detail. Where a region is to be varied or termin­ We now move on to the proposed amend­ ments of Division IV-Project Boards, of ated, provision must be made to vary or Part VI-Planned Development. A project abolish a regional co-ordination council estab­ board established under the 1971 Act is lished in respect of that region. Section 40 granted perpetual succession. It is des.irable, is amended accordingly by the addition of a therefore, that provision be made to d1ssolve proposed subsection. a project board should it become redundant, For administrative purposes it was found or should it be established only to undertake neoessary to appoint regional co-ordinators construction of a project. The management for two areas of the State, the central and and control of that project could then be southern areas, before the regions which handed over to a body such as a joint make up these sectors were declared. How­ local authority. ever, section 39 of the 1971 Act required The possibility of establishing a project that appointments of regional co-ordinators be board to construct and manage a scheme made in respect of declared regions. to augment the supply of water to the town Accordingly, it is proposed to amend section of Gladstone v.as investigated. However, 39 to validate the appointment of such officers of the Crown Law Department regional co-ordinators. Provision is also advised that the power required to under­ made to permit this practice in future and this take the Gladstone water supply scheme future action will depend on specific require­ could not be conferred upon a project board ments as they occur. by an Order in Council under section 77 (3) of the Act. It is proposed, therefore, that It is pointed out at this juncture that it amendments be made in order that such was decided not to amend the Act to include powers as may be required by a project a specification for the membership of all board to investigate, plan, construct and regional co-ordination councils in order to manage a scheme, can be conferred by retain flexibility in the appointment of mem­ an Order in Council under section 77. In bers to particular councils. It is the other words, if it is necessary, . an Order Government's stated intention that each local in Council may empower a proJect board authority will have at least one representative to borrow money by debenture loan, acquire on a council. I emphasise that. land, construct works, employ workmen It is important that membership of these and professional staff, maintain the works, councils be consistent, that is, that the terms of and take such action as may be required appointment of both the regional co-ordination to regulate output from the works. councils and the local authorities represented Amendments are also required in Part on these councils should coincide. Under VU-Finance Provisions in respect of the section 41 of the 1971 Act, if a regional borrowing of monies. As the propos~d co-ordination council was appointed at any amendment above will permit an Order m time other than immediately after the local Council under section 77 to confer borrow­ government elections, local government mem­ ing powers on a project board, reference bers to the regional co-ordination council to the borrowing of money by debenture who resigned or were not re-elected, could loan in sections 97 and 98 should be remain on the council in a private capacity restricted to the Co-ordinator-General. How­ for the remaining period of their three-year ever, sections 99 and 101 do not confer term of membership. This situation could power to raise loans but declare the. la;v also obtain in the case of other members of that will apply to any loan after 1t IS a regional co-ordination council. The raised, or declare the rights and obligations important role of local government rep­ of the investors in such a loan. These resentation in the composition of a regional provisions are not appropriate to be included co-ordination council has already been in an Order in Council made for a project stressed when the original Act was intro­ board's benefit under section 77. Accord­ duced. Therefore, to facilitate the establish­ ingly, these sections are amended to ment of a regional co-ordination council and expressly include borrowers of money under to make the situation more administratively the authority of the Act other than the flexible, provision is made to appoint mem­ Co-ordinator-General. bers for a lesser term than 'three years. A similar provision is proposed in respect of With regard to Division III of Part VIII project boards under Section 71, Part VI, -Miscellaneous Provisions, acting on legal Planned Development, as local authority advice amendments are proposed to section representatives and others may also be rep­ 121 t~ permit the making of certain regula­ resented on particular boards. tions prescribing the procedure to be State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill 2961

followed in regard to the establishment and Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: As the honour­ functioning of bodies provided for under able member for Townsville West knows, I the Act. have been in and out of Townsville many The State and Regional Planning and times-probably more frequently than he Development, Public Works Organization would like to see me there-but on that and Environmental Control Act 1971 was occasion I was not invited to go with the a bold and imaginative attempt to provide Federal Minister. I place it on record, how­ a system whereby the complex problems ever, that the Minister concerned did pay the of State and regional development could State the courtesy of ringing me personally, be analysed and solved. The amendments saying that he was going to Townsville, that proposed are of a machinery nature identified he would like to call in and say "Hello" as a result of tests on the practical applica­ but that time did not permit him to do so. tion of the statutory provisions laid down Of course, he is the only Minister who has by the Act. done that up to date. I repeat that the amendments do not The Press statement continued- represent a change in approach to State "It is proposed that the area of Towns­ development, regional planning or environ­ vine and its environs will be known as mental control. Last month I released the Northern Region, while the Mackay a Press statement in relation to the pro­ area will be known as the Mackay Region. gressive regionalization of the State of "The State and Regional Planning and Queensland. I am aware that certain state­ Development, Public Works Organization ments have been made by outside sources and Environmental Control Act was indicating or prophesying how certain passed in 1971. This cleared the way for sections of this legislation would militate the declaration of any part of the State against the interests of local government in as a region for the purposes of this Act, relation to its representation on regional and subsequently for the setting up of advisory councils, and in relation to local Regional Co-ordination Councils. government responsibility and activity gen­ "This approach to regional planning has erally. So that these ill-conceived and already been most favourably commented mischievous statements can be answered, upon, both in Queensland and throughout let me reiterate the salient points of my Australia generally. It will also ensure that Press announcement and, for the record, Local Government and local bodies will embody these in "Hansard". The statement play a more effective role in regional con­ read- siderations and strategic planning and thus "Preliminary investigations of regions strengthen the present two-tier system of are proceeding and it is anticipated that Government in Queensland, namely, State subsequent to general local approval two and Local Government. (2) regions, namely those based on Towns­ "The success of this system, as indicated vil!e and Mackay, will be declared without when the legislation was introduced, will delay, and Regional Co-ordination Councils depend on the close co-operation and appointed." co-ordination of effort as between State :Mr. Tucker interjected. Government on the one hand and Local Government on the other. M;. BJELKE-PETERSEN: I am sure the "To avoid any confusion in relation to honourable member for Townsville West is the Government's intentions relating to the very grateful to the Government for its for­ composition of Regional Co-ordination ward thinking and action in the part of the Councils, I stated that the Northern Region State that he represents. based on Townsville would comprise at Mr. Tucker: I think Gough Whitlam has least one representative from each Local spurred you on. Authority as well as representatives from other local bodies and groups with regional Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: The honour­ interests. able member completely overlooks, of "It is anticipated that the number on course, the fact that the proposed legislation the Council would be approximately 15 at was introduced-perhaps I might put it this this stage, thus giving Local Authorities way-long before the Gough Whitlam Gov­ a majority of membership, this being clearly ernment was thought of. There has been a indicated when the legislation was intro­ change of Government in the Federal sphere, duced. and the Government of Queensland has taken "The functions of the Regional Co-ordin­ action in this area since that time. In my ation Councils are:- opinion, the Federal Governme·nt is follow­ ing the lead of the State Government by (1) To promote co-ordination of sending representatives to Townsville in con­ objectives of government organizations nection with the building of a larger airstrip, in their own region; which. of course, will be ideal for North (2) To review the state of develop­ Queensland. ment in the region and submissions made Mr. Tucker: I wish you had done what to it; the Premiers of the other States would have (3) To prepare strategic plans for the done-come up and had a look at it. region's development; 2962 State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill

(4) To make recommendations to the clauses 38, 40, 48, 51, 70, 72 and 119. Co-ordinator-General on regional Many of the other clauses were debated, development and policy matters; but amendments were actually moved to the (5) To collect and disseminate infor­ clauses I have mentioned. In our proposed mation on regional development. amendment to clause 40 we asked that cer­ "A Regional Co-ordinator of the tain words be omitted and that the following Co-ordinator-General's Department will be be inserted in lieu thereof- associated with one or more Regional 'The four or more other members of Co-ordination Councils and will be a Regional Co-ordination Council shall responsible for the activities of these consist of-" Councils." The Bill laid it down that there had to be That is the text of the Press statement released four or more other people besides those last month summarising the Government's designated in the legislation, and we sug­ attitude to this important legislation. gested by our amendment that they should consist of- I commend the motion to the Committee. "(a) a representative of each Local Mr. HOUSTON (Bulimba-Leader of the Authority that exercises jurisdiction within Opposition) (2.34 p.m.): The Premier has the region or as the case may be, the attempted to convince the Committee that part thereof for which the council is the proposed Bill is another milestone in the established; development of this State, but I suggest that "{b) a representative of each electricity honourable members should look carefully at supply authority (other than a Local Auth­ the history of the matter. ority) that is authorised to exercise and The legislation that it amends was brought perform its powers, authority, functions down in 1971, its major purpose being to tell and duties within the region or, as the the people of Queensland that the Country­ case may be, the part thereof for which Liberal Government intended doing some­ the council is established; thing about regional planning. It was intro­ "(c) a representative of each Harbour duced on Wednesday, 22 October 1971, only Board (including the Harbours Trust a few months before the last State election. within the meaning of The Harbours Acts, There had been considerable criticism of 1955 to 1968) that is authorised to exer­ the Government for not doing anything about cise and perform its powers, authority, regional planning, particularly as the functions and duties in respect of a harbour Australian Labor Party had announced during within the region or, as the case may be, the 1969 election campaign that it believed the part thereof for which the council is that regional planning was of paramount established; importance to the State. At that time the "(d) such other person or perwns as ,Premier agreed that regional planning was the Minister, having regard to the circum­ necessary, but it took him until 22 October stances and requirements of the region or 1971 to introduce the legislation. part thereof in respect of which the appointment is to be made, recommends After the Opposition had been given only to the Governor in Council." 18 days to study the Bill, the second-reading debate was brought on. The Bill contained Our amendment also called for the insertion 122 clauses and a schedule. At that time of the following words:- Parliament was faced with a very heavy "The person nominated by a body that legislative programme, and the Government is entitled to be represented on a Regional wanted the House to rise early in December. Co-ordination Council under paragraph As a result, there was very little opportunity (a), (b) or (c) of this subsection shall be for anyone, especially local authorities, to the person recommended by the Minister study the legislation thoroughly. In my for appointment by the Governor in speeches in the Chamber I pointed out that Council." local authorities had not had an opportunity I think it is very clear that what the Premier to study the Bill to see how it would apply. is now saying the Government intends to do However, steam-roller tactics were used by -that is, amend the Act so that the term of the Government to get the Bill through. The office of a representative of a local authority second reading was brought on at 32 minutes or board is maintained only while that person past mid-day on 9 November, and we sat holds that responsible position-is only in right through until three minutes past 4 conformity with an amendment that we on the morning of 10 November. moved and that the Government rejected, on Why was there all that great haste and a division, because it said it was unnecessary. panic? It was very obvious that the Gov­ The argument that the Premier used today ernment wanted the Bill passed so that in to justify it was identical with what we said its election campaign it could claim that then. However, I am pleased to see that great progress had been made with regional local authorities are included in the region planniJ:!g. in their own right. This is particularly On .that occasion the Opposition analysed important. the Bill as thoroughly as possible in the To show that the Government was simply limited time available. We decided that at grandstanding at that time, the Act was pro­ least seven amendments were required-to claimed in the Government Gazette on 25 State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill 2963

December 1971 and commenced to operate as Without wishing to be political, I think from 1 January 1972. Today, in March that moves to decentralise the population, 1973, the provisions of the Act are not such as those made by the Federal Govern­ actually in operation and at this late stage ment to create the Albury-Wodonga area amendments have to be passed before they and to upgrade the city of Townsville (I can become operative. It makes one wonder mean upgrade it from the poor state of why the Government is repeating the per­ neglect that this Government has put it in), formance. Obviously, as the honourable are a recognition of the fact that only by member for Townsville West said, it is now relocating our population can we hope to trying desperately to show that it is moving, create an environment that will be not only knowing full well, of course, that the Com­ pleasant to live in but also productive and monwealth Government has already said that fruitful, not in the short-term interest of it intends to carry on with Federal planning. particular companies or organisations but in the long-term planning and use of our Naturally, I cannot give a "Yes" or "No" environment. answer to the various amendments that the Premier has outlined, but I can certainly I can recall that when a similar measure assure him that we will be analysing them was introduced in 1971 the Press hailed it very closely. I trust that on this occasion, as one of the most forward-thinking pieces if amendments are moved by the Opposition, of legislation to come before the Queens­ they will not be blatantly pushed aside and land Parliament for quite some time. that notice will be taken of them. Although Mr. Bjelke-Petersen: They were dead right, we have not at our disposal the numerous too, weren't they? public servants that are available to the Government for advice, or the publicity staff Mr. SHERRINGTON: I do not wish to to put our views before the Press and on state whether the Press reports were dead paper for use in speeches here, there are right or dead wrong, but perhaps their many dedicated members of local authorities writers could be likened to racing tipsters who are prepared to tell us what is best for -they are always hopeful the horse will local government. After all, those elected to perform well but never quite sure that it local authorities are responsible to the people, will. as a whole, and any regional planning that A perusal of the speeches made on that is carried out must have as its basis what is occasion by members of the Opposition will best for the people collectively or the area show that we were prepared to co-operate concerned, not what is best for a Government and to accept that after many years of or a Government department. prodding the Government had been shamed into a recognition of the vital need to plan With those remarks, I indicate that the the environment and use of our resources. Opposition will not oppose the introduction I was roundly taken to task by the Premier of the legislation. However, we will for having had the temerity to suggest that scrutinise it very closely, and I hope we will Queensland lacked land conservation, or, not be forced to debate its clauses until we in other words, a proper survey and control have had a reasonable opportunity to of land resources. In my speech I had examine them. claimed that previously we had misused our land. Mr. SHERRINGTON (Salisbury) (2.44 p.n;.:) Like the Leader of the Opposition, I Irrespective of the Government in office, believe that the number of amendments that mainly because of a poor understanding of have been introduced makes it almost our environmental problems our land was physically impossible for us to make a snap misused. Perhaps it had been misused in decision on each and every one of them. I good faith. But it is inexcusable that in think the Opposition should be given an 1973, with an understanding of our environ­ opportunity to make a thorough study of the ment, we continue to make the mistakes amendments and their implications before that were made in the past when little firmly committing itself to supporting or study was made of the ecology. rejecting any or all of them. During the earlier debate I think the hon­ ~.Y purpose in rising is to register my ourable member for Ithaca expressed the ommon that, because of the changing patterns hope that the legislation would be pushed of our ordered way of life, this type of through in a hurry because he claimed that, legislation is possibly the most important if it were not, there would be, to use his we have to consider apart from legislation own words, "no more Cooloolas, Fraser dealing with social welfare. One would dare Islands or Tallebudgeras". I wondered at to hope that any Bill designated "Regional the time whether he meant that we would Development and Environmental Planning" see their physical demise or whether we could be hailed as a measure that would would have no more of the sordid, sorry overcome many of the problems we have episodes of competing land usage that we created through the misuse of resources, the have witnessed for so long in Queensland. lack of understanding of our environment and I might ask what this Bill with the long the improper planning of the various name has achieved in resolving these prob­ populated areas. lems. Only a few months ago the irate 2964 State and Regional (15 MARCH 1973} Planning, &c., Bill citizens of Sunshine Beach made all sorts is sub judice, Mr. Hewitt, but surely I can of threats and they had to dig deeply into say "Cooloola" without going any further-I their pockets to fight the onrush of the pointed out that one of the great tragedies sand-miners in an established tourist and of the affair was that the only issue calling holiday area. Surely that was a classic for decision was whether we should or should example of a problem that could have been not mine Cooloola, and that at no time had tackled by an organisation for environmental any alternative plan been prepared for the and regional planning. But it was not to use of this area. In other words, not one be: we continued to follow the old, outmoded survey had been made to establish an alter­ approaches that have been applied in this native use to guarantee long-term employ­ State since its inception. We still use the ment of ,the work-force in that region if the outmoded approach by which mining wardens decision was again~! mining of this area. try to decide on complex ecological problems I challenge the Premier to tell us how many that arise as a result of competing land developmental or environmental surveys have usage. been carried out in the various regions of I do not know how often I have risen our State. in this Chamber to point out the utter Mr. Houston: They have not even set up futility of using a Mining Warden's Court the regions properly. to sit in judgment and make recommenda­ Mr. SHERRINGTON: I suppose it is too tions on competing land usage. These much to hope that two years would be con­ courts were established 100 years ago solely sidered too long for that action. Surely for the purpose of resolving legal disputes all decisions, whether on environme~tal over mining claims. Mining wardens are planning or on developmental plannmg, not properly equipped to make decisions on should be based on research into the resources matters of ecology. and population of an area, . the long In this context I am reminded of the term needs of the State and vanous other applications heard in the Maryborough Min­ aspects. To me, as I said during t~e ing Warden's Court for the granting of debate on this legislation last year, the basic leases on Fraser Island. At the time a ingredients of proper planning are Jacking. conflict was raging between the conserva­ Before an attempt can be made to plan any tionist groups and the mining companies. use of this State, we must understand what A survey was being made of the resources is involved, whether it be coal deposits, stands of Fraser Island and islands in Moreton of commercial timber, or derelict land that Bay, but the report was not made available should be reclaimed. That could be done to the mining warden to help him in deciding by reforestation, or putting the land to C?m­ whether or not the leases should be granted. mercial or pastoral us,es. Many quest10ns remain to be answered before it will be Although the Act we are discussing has possible to plan the use of all the resources been in operation since 1971, no use has of the State. been made of its powers to replace what, in my 9pinion, is a woefully inadequate One thing that the legislation lacks is system of adjudicating on competing land the means of assessing proper land con­ usage. Since its inception, the Opposition's servation measures. I think it is quite ideas on land conservation matters gener­ futile even to talk in terms of enviwn­ ally have received no support. mental planning without the establishment of an environmental research laboratory. Even At present we have on our plate a dispute though the Act was brought down in 1971, which I believe will become a continuing not one step has been taken to set up such story of confrontation between different a facility. No move has been made to schools of thought on whether it is feasible organise research on a :o-ordinated scale, to establish a wood-chip industry in Queens­ and for that reason pollution problems have land. I have spoken previously on this continued. Only this morning I heard the matter. In my humble opinion our scrubs honourable member for South Coast com­ and forests cannot support the immense plaining that those responsible had not been demands of a wood-chip industry. It is our able to make up their minds whether to responsibility to make a decision based discharge effluent into Tallebudgera Creek. not on our own personal feelings but on The Tallebudgera Creek saga goes back investigations made by competent people. many years, and I am now beginnin_g ~o Even though I have asked for impact studies feel like one of the oldest characters m It. into the wood-chip industry and the long In this age of enlightened planning, the term effects on the countryside or on the Government lacks an environmental research environment from the use of chemical laboratory. It lacks facilities for concen­ defoliants, I have yet to see produced in trated research and it is still depending this Chamber a properly researched pro­ on the university and other institutions for gramme into any of the matters that I this work. As I have said before, I believe are bound up not only in environ­ believe that the Queensland Littoral Society mental planning but also in regional develop­ has done more marine research than any ment. other body that I know of in this State. Some years ago, when the Government The Government could well begin its environ­ sought to discredit my contributions on mental planning by pinpointing the roots of Cooloola-I know that you will say that it the problem and striking first at those. State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill 2965

Of course, I would not expect the Premier today to put representatives of local govern­ or any other Government member to listen ments on the regional co-ordination council to the A.LP. All of our progressive ideas because Clem Jones and most other local gov­ have met with ridicule or abuse. T'he Gov­ ernmen, representatives attacked the Govern­ ernment is not even prepared to listen to, ment violently when they were not appointed and learn from, those of its own political to it. kidney. If the Government will not go The Government proposed to give the to see the Prime Minister, let it go and Co-ordinator-General the right to do what have discussions on regional and environ­ be liked-to stand over local authorities and mental planning with the Victorian State say to them, "You will do all these things." Government, which is the most Tory-ridden The committee set up for environmental Government in this country but nevertheless co-ordination had representatives of 19 Gov­ leads Australia in some of the things it ernment departments on it, but local govern­ has done in environmental planning. ment was not mentioned. When it came to (Time expired.) the question of regional co-ordination and the appointment of co-ordination councils, Mr. BURNS (Lytton) (3.3 p.m.):. I agree the Government did not even mention rep­ with the Leader of the Opposition that resentatives of local government. It said in the State and Regional Planning and Develop­ part that the functions of these councils were ment, Public Works Organization and to continuously review the environment and Environmental Control Act was hailed by to look at matters related to the state of the many people throughout the community as environment for submission to the Environ­ a tremendous step forward. Unfortunately, mental Control Council. It gave that council it has turned out to be a damp squib, the right to co-ordinate these works-to because nothing has really happened since continuously review the state of the environ­ it was brought down. It resembles the ment and to review and investigate sub­ 1963 Clean Air Act, which was passed in missions referred to it concerning the 1963 and promulgated in 1965. Regulations environment. under it were brought down in 1968, yet What has happened since then? The Clean in 1973 the air is still being polluted by Air Act has been under the control of the the same industries that were polluting it Minister for Health, the Clean Water Act in 1963. under the control of the Minister for Local Government, and environmental planning Perhaps regional councils have been set under the control of the Premier. There up in a couple of a·reas of the State, but has not even been co-ordination between the real "crunch" question is this: when the various Government departments related is something to be done about the metro­ to the environment. The Department of politan area? This is where most of the Harbours and Marine, under the control of noxious and hazardous industries are situated. the Minister for Marine Affairs, has made Even today, the tannery at Hemmant is submissions to the committee that is studying advertising to have a section of rural land the impact of the new Brisbane airport on in that area excised from the non-urban the surrounding suburbs and on the City of zone and placed, not into the next category Brisbane generally, saying that its long-range of general or light industry, but directly plans envisaged several overseas-class shipping into t.he category of noxiuus or hazardous wharves and berths from the Hamilton Reach indus:ry. In such a zone, any foul, rotten, to Juno Point and Bishop Island, on both ponuting industry can be established as of sides of the river, and mentioning loading right. Such an industry can be set up, thus cranes up to 200 feet high for ships, cranes destroying the peace and quiet of a rural 275 feet high at Cairncross Dock, and an area, the healthy environment of the people extension of the size of chimney heights at in it, and the value of homes in the nearby the Ampol Oil Refinery and at the Amoco Oil suburbs. Refinery, on the other side of the river. Those things came out only because there Mr. Chinchen: The Lord Mayor won't was a Commonwealth environmental study in stop that. connection with the new airport. Mr. BURNS: If the honourable member is It is apparent to me that the Government talking about regional planning and setting is talking about developing an industrial area, up a State and regional planning develop­ with hazardous industries, harbour indus­ ment committee, and saying that the func­ tries, and noxious industries, in the area tion of that body is to co"ordinate the work at the mouth of the river, where the breezes of Government departments, local authorities, from Moreton Bay blow dirt, dust and sta(utory bodies, etc., I suggest to him that smells back onto housing areas. Honourable if the Act was implemented, we would members opposite cannot convince me that at last be taking some of the steps that they have done, or are doing, anything members of the Opposition have been urging, towards regional planning or environmental steps towards a clean environment and pianning when they have allowed land towards making this city a better place to developers in the Murrarie area--Dne of the live in. But that has not happened. The foulest, most-polluted industrial areas in the Government is not co-ordinating the work of State-to subdivide new housing estates there the various bodies. In fact, it is only acting and sell the land to unsuspecting people. 2966 State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill

They are unsuspecting, because if one is Mr. Hughes: Surely you agree that this there late at night, when A. J. Bush & Sons is use of land and town planning generally. begins operating its plant and rendering I agree generally with your sentiments, but down animals-- don't you think this should be out of the realm of the city council and in the Mr. Chinchen: Clem Jones approved of hands of a planning commission? that. Mr. BURNS: This Act was introduced Mr. BURNS: Clem Jones did not approve over the top of the local government people. of it. I accept the honourable member's Whenever I have spoken to planners about interjection because I hoped that someone woul_d try to tell me that. town planning, they have told me. th~t questions of environment do not come mto Jt The Air Pollution Control Council stated greatly. They say that town planning is quite clearly in its 1971 report that it concerned more with the zoning of areas, would review any new industry that would the distance a building is from a fence, pollute the atmosphere and had been started and that sort of thing. If we accept that after the regulations were brought down in the environment is a major consideration, 1968. If the honourable member goes to we will have to use these co-ordinating the Parliamentary Library and gets a copy bodies to step in over the top of the local of the report that was tabled in this Parlia­ authorities saying, "Before you plan an ment, he will see that statement. industry i~ that area, have you. co~sidered Only one request was made at that time to how it will affect people who l!ve m your the Brisbane City Council by A. J. Bush & area and surrounding local authority areas? Sons. I assure the Committee that I have Have you considered what effect it will have looked into this matter and have attended a on people who travel through the area?" number of meetings in the area. The only The firm A. J. Bush & Sons that I have request at that time to the council related to referred to came to Queensland in 1970 drainage, site approval, and distances from from Homebush, in New South Wales, and the fences. The Air Pollution Control Coun­ set up a plant to render down c~ttle. At cil allowed that company to start a new niaht-time the air in the surrounding area rotten, polluting industry near this residential is'" foul and rotten· it stinks; it is putrid. area in 1970, and it is only because of the Because of it, residents cannot stay in their large-scale mass revolt of the people in the homes school-children cannot do their home­ area that the Minister told me yesterday, in work 'and people who suffer from asthma answer to a question, that by the 23rd of this or other respiratory complaints have com­ month after-burners and anti-pollution equip­ plete black-outs and have to be taken out ment would be installed there. of the area. Yet in 1971 we introduced If the Government was carrying out a Bill to deal with environmental planning! environmental planning and if the provisions We hear talk about co-ordinating the opera­ of the Clean Air Act, which was brought tions of the various Government departments. down in 1963, were being implemented, that Let me give the example of Bulimba Creek. company would not have had to be told I wrote to the water pollution authorities ·now to install such equipment. The after­ and told them that a number of factories burners would have been installed as a were poiluting Bulimba Creek. Foul smells matte·r of policy when the building was being were being created, and fish and other forms constructed. In his answer to me yesterday, of life were being destroyed. The reply the Minister said that the city council has I received was, "If it is pollution in the to approve the installation of the after­ creek it is under our control as it is a burners on top of the building. I think the matter of water quality. If it stinks it State Government department in charge of is in the air, and comes under the control scaffolding said that they could not be of the air pollution authorities. In that installed on chimneys because of weight or case, write to the other department." some other factor. I wrote to the Air Pollution Control The Government's whole approach to this people because of the poHution caused by matter strikes me as very poor planning. the fertiliser plant on Gibson Island. It is The Harbours and Marine Department says established on an industrial estate set up that Evans Deakin and all the other heavy by the Government. The Lytton, Gibson industries will be moved to the mouth of Island and Colmslie industrial estates are the Brisbane River. The Air Pollution all located in the Lytton electorate. The Control people have said time and time fertiliser plant has some way of turning off again that we in Brisbane live in a com­ the after-burners, or whatever they are, on paratively small area surrounded by hills the chimneys at night-time. It could be and the prevailing breezes come in from that they clean them out then. In any the sea, yet we site all our industries at event, a large amount of fall-out disperses the mouth of the river. If honourable over the area at night-time. It is not visible members look at a map, they will see that in the dark, and the management gets away all the noxious industries are located where with it. However, one morning they forgot the sea breezes will send pollution back over to turn the after-burner on, and the material the city. Can that be considered to be that came up the chimney fell onto the good environmental planning? cars in the plant's car park. As a result, State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill 2967 the management had to get people in to are affected. I am not here to defend any clean or touch up and repaint the affected council if it has done something wrong, but cars. in planning, people make mistakes, whether I wrote to the Air Pollution Control they be Labor councils, Liberal Party coun­ people on this matter and said, "I know cils or Country Party councils. It is not of an instance where the fall-out from the simply a matter of standing up here and chimney at this plant was deposited on the saying they are right because they are Liberal employees' cars. It damaged the paint work and wrong because they are Labor. If a on their cars." In reply I was told, "The mistake has been made, let us correct it. Act provides that if it falls in the company's yard it is not a matter for us; we have What I am saying is that we are classed no control over it. It has to fall outside as a joke when we introduce legislation the fence into somebody else's property such as the Clean Air Act of 1963, but we before we can take action." I will say are still pouring pollution all over the people this for the gentleman who wrote to me: from our power-houses in 1973. I recently He said, "I won't hide behind a technicality. wrote to the Minister, drawing his attention I will try to do something about it." Such to the fact that every afternoon, at the technicalities and lack of positive action are evening peak, black smoke from the power­ allowing these industries to ruin the family house billows all over the Hemmant-Bulimba life and pleasant living of the people in this Creek area. We have the 1963 Clean Air and many other areas. Act and the Clean Water Act, and yet the Acting Director of Water Quality (Mr. Henry) If we are engaging in environmental plan­ recently admitted that at times the oxygen ning, let us decide that a certain area is to readings in Bulimba Creek sometimes descend be an industrial area, and consequently a to zero-there is no oxygen at all in the polluted area, and let us do something bottom of the creek. What sort of environ­ about the people who live there. Let us mental planning is that? do something for people who pay $20,000 or $25,000 for attractive homes at Murarrie, We have reached the stage where there is only to find that, when a bullock dies in a pressing need to implement what we have rhe paddock, Borthwicks or the Government meant to do by the introduction of Acts. Let meatworks do not even bother to pull it us now bring their provisions into force, and into a distant corner and burn it there as control planning. Let us use regional coun­ they used to do. Instead, they pull a log cils. We believe in regional councils. The alongside it and burn it within 100 yards Labor party has always supported the con­ of the housing area. That is what they cept of regional planning with full local do now. They also employ a man to haul the government representation. I think the only carcasses down into a valley. The result environmental or impact study in the Brisbane is that the stench blows up the valley onto area during the last few years-at least since the housing side of the hill. They do not 1971-is the one in which we collaborated have enough sense to take them a little with the Commonwealth Government in further away. The Minister told me yester­ relation to the Brisbane airport. That has at day that he has the air pollution people least brought out a lot of information that looking into the matter. However, if anyone we could not ascertain by way of questions says to the people who live there and have in this Chamber. We could not find out to put up with the stink, "We have the here that the port was to be extended Environmental Planning Act of 1971, or to the mouth of the river. The Government the Clean Water Act of whatever year it will not admit that it is closing off Boggy was, or the Clean Air Act of 1963," they Creek and other places, with dredge spoil, just laugh. They do not believe that this but the airport report shows that this is Government is trying to do anything about being done. the matter. Mr. Sherrington: The Government has the Turning now to dredge spoil, every day Acts, and the people have the stink. mud and filth is sucked from the river bed but by the time the dredge passes Bishop Mr. BURNS: That is right. Island crew members have its bottom open and the spoil is poured out in front of the Mr. Chinchen: Three days ago the Brisbane Wynnum area, although the honourable City Council approved a new extractive member for Wynnum has been working hard industry at Rochedale, a very nice suburban for years towards the return of the sandy area. Don't you think the council should beaches that should be there. When I was have held its hand until this new control a child I used to walk along the river bank was implemented? at Colmslie, between the fish market and Mr. BURNS: The Government introduced the meatworks, and fish on the sand that this legislation in 1971, but it has done used to be there. Today, anyone who walked nothing about it. How long should we have along there would have his feet cut to to wait? The honourable member need pieces on broken bottles and tin cans and not talk about something that is happening would sink up to his knees in soft mud today. This legislation is two years old, and oily sludge that comes from boats and and we have been waiting all that time for out of the Cairncross Dock, which is owned the Government to help us proteot those who and controlled by the Government. 2968 State and Regional (15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill

I think we have run away from the question the fact that local authority representatives on environmental planning. It is no use will have some control over, or say in, the simply passing legislation here. We must affairs of regional councils. have an honest intent to implement it. I I am fortunate in having had in my area wish to know what has happened with the the first regional study ever carried out in regulations of one of the three Bills to which Australia. Even before we heard talk of I have referred. The Clean Water regulations Albury-Wodonga or the proposed regional were gazetted well before Parliament resumed growth of Townsville, the Mackay Regional a couple of weeks ago, but the Minister for Study was under way. In 1970 the statistics Local Government has not yet tabled them that led ultimately to that study were com­ here. Why not? I have read them and I want piled. However, the findings of that study to object to them because they will allow the are already out of date, and under the polluters of Bulimba Creek to continue what present set-up no provision is made for the they have been doing for 20 years, and continual updating of the study. especially during the last six or seven years. H we are to carry resolutions or pass Bills, As an example, the study bases the pre­ at least let us be honest about it. We should dicted development for the 20 years up to either implement them or strike them from 1990 on the growth of tourism in the Mackay the Statute Book and forget about them. region. In other words, the predicted popula­ tion growth is based on tourism. But since Mr. CASEY (Mackay) (3.20 p.m.): The 1970 the whole of the North Queensland first thing we expect when Bills such as this tourist industry has suffered three set-backs. are before the Committee is a review of the One was the result of scare-mongering by activities under the principal Act in the two the Weather Bureau about cyclones. years since it was introduced, which some Would-be tourists were deterred from visiting other members have given. Its primary pur­ North Queensland at certain times of the pose was to bring about a compiete reorgan­ year because they were led to believe that, isation of the Co-ordinator-General's Depart­ if a cyclone occurred while they were there, ment, and under the Co-ordinator-General they would be blown into the Pacific Ocean. (Mr. Barton) and his Deputy (Mr. Schubert), This, of course, is a lot of rot. Everybody this reorganisation has been achieved. It knows that North Queensland has been also provided for the setting-up of the populated for more than a century, and that Environmental Control Council. Today a people can survive cyclones, no matter how great deal of criticism has been levelled at destructive they might be. With proper that body, and the claim has been made that planning of buildings, and appropriate and it is ineffective. adequate precautions, damage from cyclones can be greatly mitigated. They are no more It is unfortunate that confusion has arisen dangerous to the North than some of the over the intent of the legislation. Its provi­ major storms and floodings that hit the bigger sions related to regional planning, not town cities. planning. Nevertheless, I sympathise with The second setback affecting the tourist those metropolitan members who have spoken industry is the fear of sea-stingers on the in critical terms today of the city of Brisbane, because on Tuesday morning as I flew over beaches. Whether action would be taken by Eagle Farm airport I could see the great the Environmental Control Council or not, I smog bank that covered the entire city. do not know, but the Government has failed to take adequate steps to determine the envir­ The regional planning aspect of the Act onment in which the sea-stingers breed and is a far-reaching one. On its introduction, grow and the cause of their movement in other honourable members and I predicted great numbers from the breeding grounds to that certain problems would arise, and they North Queensland beaches. have now arisen. Regional planning, if insti­ As I have said, the Mackay study assumed tuted properly, is a redistribution of central a continuing build-up of the tourist industry Government activities. In addition, it can in the North, but the day after the study was be counted upon as being a promotion of released an announcement was made that new forms of co-operation between, and the overseas air fares were to be reduced. This amalgamation of, local authorities. However, caused severe hardship to tourist operators care must be taken to ensure that regional in the northern area of Queensland. People planning does not lead to a new form of in the southern cities can fly overseas at regional government. This is a very great relatively low cost. This is the third factor danger. It is easy in theory but difficult in that has nullified the main points in the oractice to draw a distinction between Mackay Regional Study. decision-making bodies, as the regional councils were intended to be, and bodies that On the other hand, we have been fortunate. possess both decision-making and executive Despite the fact that work was under way nowers. There is a danger that the former to build the new Hay Point port, and despite type of body can become the latter. the fact that the Goonyella mine was being opened for production and a railway line A characteristic of the regional councils was being built, the study took no cognisance that have been set up is their great depend­ of those happenings. In addition, a new mine ency on local authorities; yet until the intro­ was to be opened at Peak Downs in the duction of this Bill we heard no mention of following year. In the two years that have State and Regional (15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill 2969 elapsed, a completely new port has been Council and both the Fitzroy and Living­ built 13 miles south of Mackay at Hay Point. stone Shire Councils. Problems also exist By the end of 1975 it will be handling about in Bundaberg, Maryborough, Brisbane, 19,000,000 tons of export coal a year and Ipswich, Toowoomba-in fact, in every will be the major port in the State. major centre. All of these developments have had an Local authority boundaries must be effect on the regional study, but nothing is updated and altered to ensure that regional being done to update the statistics and plan­ planning will promote co-operation in the ning that were used in its compilation. It is amalgamation of local authorities, to which useless to have such a valuable document I referred earlier, rather than cause and lying in the archives unless it is acted on and create problems such as those for which continually updated. The way in which the it is responsible in the areas where regional study was carried out and the manner in councils are being set up. For instance, which it has been implemented emphasise two councils are already fighting over Flat those points. Top and Round Top Islands in the mouth of the Pioneer River because the Minister Mr. Ch1uchen: When was the study com­ for Local Government has decided that pleted? all Queensland islands should be incorpora­ Mr. CASEY: The statistics were taken in ted in local authority areas. I agree that 1970 over a period of several months. The islands should be under the control of analysis, which was carried out by computer some local authority, because of the various and other means available to the engineering Acts that local authorities are required to group, took several months, and recommenda­ administer. Suddenly these two councils tions were then presented. It is all very well are arguing about which will get these to have recommendations made, but the islands. important thing is to have them brought Mr. Ahern: Could each of them have to fruition. That was the main purpose of one? the State and Regional Planning and Develop­ ment, Public Works Organization and Mr. CASEY: They would have to roll Environmental Control Act. the dice, because the islands lie in a straight Moves are now afoot to establish one of line. Not even a goat is living on either, the first regional councils in the Mackay so neither shire could expect to collect district, but, as was foreshadowed when the any rates. Act was introduced-and the honourabl~ Regional planning is not a substitute for member for Mirani will back my statement­ rezoning of local authorities. This must squabbling is already taking place among the be done before regional councils and zones local authorities in the Mackay area about can be set up properly. There was dis­ who shall be on the body and who shall putation among several shire councils on control it. The study which was undertaken whether they would or would not come in the area and the objects of the legislation into the original council to be set up in are falling down because since 1929 we have the Mackay district. The Belyando Shire not had a proper examination of Shire Council rightly claimed that it should be boundaries, or co-operation on them between represented on the Mackay Regional Council the local authorities. Periodic electoral because of the value of its coal that will redistribution is considered necessary in the be exported through Hay Point, which is State and Commonwealth spheres, but nothing in the Mackay district. has been done with local authority boundaries since 1913. The 1929 study made certain Broadsound Shire is in somewhat the same recommendations but with a change of Gov­ position. It feels it should be represented ernment they were not implemented. A on this council rather than on the council depression followed. Nothing has been done to be set up in Rockhampton. Some small since to alter local authority boundaries. I shires of only 200 or 300 people, such blame both this Government and previous as Nebo, are claiming that they should Governments for this situation. have as many representatives as the Mackay City Council, which is responsible for 20,000 Certain cities and shires have agreed to people. There is constant squabbling and alterations in their boundaries. But if we bickering for the simple reason that local are to have regional-planning centres in authority boundaries have not been redrawn Queensland, which is the most decentralised for such a long time. A rezoning is very State in Australia, the regional areas choose badly needed. themselves naturally. They surround the major cities in the State. However, each I urge the Premier to take into account and every one of them has problems with that, when project boards are set up in boundaries. Undoubtedly the worst problem various areas or regions, the State members exists between the Mackay City Council representing those areas will be the ones and the Pioneer Shire Council, but problems to whom the people will go with their also exist between the Townsville City problems and concerns about the work that Council and the Thuringowa Shire Council, is to be carried out. Nothing in the Bill the Cairns City Council and the Mulgrave allows members representing such areas to Shire Council, and the Rockhampton City have even liaison with their own regional 2970 State and Regional (15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill

councils. I think that this matter of repre­ and in this State the organisation differed sentation or liaison should be considered from many similar organisations in other at this stage, for the simple reason that Australian States that endeavoured to establish it is the local State member who will receive planning authorities virtually outside the the complaints of the people. direct control of Government. In my opinion On too many occasions the local member ours is the better form of administration. is being bypassed in various aspects of There has been some criticism that very administration and legislation. In many little work has been done by the committee, rural areas, because members of shire but that is not quite true. One of the things councils and State members have political that I intend saying today is that I hope differences, the councils will not give infor­ some of the urgent regional planning work mation concerning their activities to local will be expedited. However, it must be clearly members. Although they claim at election recognised that planning of the whole area time that they are standing on a non­ of the State cannot be undertaken at once. political platform, they use the political It has been said to me, "Why hasn't the State sword as hard and as fast as they can been regionally planned to date by the com­ between elections. This happens on both mittee?" That is physically impossible; plan­ sides of the political fence. One sees it ning must be done in accordance with the happening in Brisbane. There is constant number of personnel available to do it. It criticism from several Liberal back-benchers must also be recognised that planning must of Clem Jones and the Labor City Council be undertaken over a period of time. There­ in this city. In some country areas, Labor fore, it is not possible to plan the whole State members have difficulty with councils con­ of Queensland at once, as has been suggested. trolled by Country Party members. There My main purpose in entering the debate must be co-operation between the various is to highlight one or two points about forms of Government, yet there is this regional planning. The first is that there does absence of a willingness to co-operate. appear to be emerging amongst local authori­ It has been stated by the Commonwealth ties in certain areas of the State a tendency Government that local authorities will be to develop their own master plans for future given a say at the Loan Council. I agree growth. I express the hope that there will with that, but only up to a point. I be only one master plan for the development think local authorities should be reminded of an area. Logically and properly, such a that they are subject to the Local Gov­ master plan must be drawn up under the ernment Act of this Parliament. They, Act. If local authorities hold varying points and the semi-governmental authorities set of view about what should happen in the up under their jurisdiction, should not forget over-all area of a shire, they should place that they are the responsibility of this their points of view before the regional Parliament. Even if they do have full boards. There will then be only one master representation at Loan Council meetings, plan for the State, and we will not be trying it is most necessary, irrespective of the to muddle along with more than one plan­ party or parties in Government at State and with, say, a local authority master plan, and Federal level, that local authorities be con­ also a Government regional plan for the area trolled by the State Government by means superimposed and not quite matching the of the Local Government Act. local authority's plan in every detail. Those are a few points that I wish to I suppose local authorities are not to be bring to the notice of the Committee in blamed for developing planning of this type, the discussion of this Bill. Once project because they have had excessive demands for boards are set up, they will be given growth in their areas recently and have had authority to borrow money. It must be to try to cope with the situation. They are remembered that the ones who will have commissioning geotechnic surveys in an to pay for the activities of the boards will endeavour to overcome the problems that be the ratepayers in the local authority areas growth is creating for them. I understand concerned. Even though there will, I hope, that the Albert Shire has about 11,000 acres be major Government subsidies, both State of approved subdivision and another 13,000 and Commonwealth, the works will have acres of subdivision awaiting approval. This to be paid for, in the main, by ratepayers places great strains on land use in the area, who are already burdened with precepts and is based philosophically on the assump­ of semi-governmental authorities. Care must tion that every area in a shire is a potential be taken to ensure that councils do not home-site. become merely collecting agencies for these semi-governmental organisations. In my area of the Sunshine Coast, for example, similar pressures are being brought (Time expired.) to bear. The area is endeavouring to develop for itself a tourist industry that will bring in Mr. AHERN (Landsborough) (3.41 p.m.): a large amount of money. To do that, of The amendments to the Regional Planning course, it must develop attractions and also Act at present before the Committee are preserve the character that makes it an area mainly of a machinery nature. The general of importance to the tourist industry. It policy of the Act was to establish a planning must be recognised that farms are important organisation within the ambit of Government, as scenic attractions in the area, just as State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill 2971 farmers are important to its economy. High prices are being paid for land on Adeqt~ate scenic areas and areas of natural, the assumption that the necessary approval ~nsporlt beauty are also very important to will be given. I know that local authorities It-areas of natural scrub land, and generous are worried about this type of thing. They areas at that. realise the importance of conserving some of the environment for future genemtions, . Unfortunately at the present time there apart from the general considerations for the rs the general philosophy in the community conservation of the environment. It is that every part of a shire can be subdivided absolutely essential that the important nursery at some time in ,the future. Land values in areas be preserved, no matter how many my electorate are being based on that assump­ mosquitoes and sandflies inhabit those areas. tion. If an area has any outlook at all The fishing industry is a large and important subdividers place a high value on it becaus~ one, and the importance of those nursery they believe they will be able to subdivide areas ~to that industry must be recognised it for housing development in the future. and taken into account. When a person says ~to a subdivider "Do you think you will ever be able to subdivide We must also consider the very serious that area?" the subdivider looks at him question of estuarine flood-plain development as if he were a heretic. In areas like mine from a flood point of view. Canal develop­ there will have to be clearly defined towns ment takes place at the estuary to a certain and development will have to be restrained R.L. Large-scale development then takes within those limits. place back from the estuary towards the head of the river, and, obviously, this aggra­ The bland philosophy that there will be vates the flood situation at the estuary. The one continuous town from Caloundra to, Council of the Shire of Landsborough is say, Maleny-one continuous urban sprawl­ very worried about this matter and is looking c~nnot be allowed from a planning point of at it. This is so important from every point vrew. The areas where a tremendous of view that it should be taken into con­ amount of growth is going on and the areas sideration in regional planning. where there is tremendous pressure from I support the amendments. I believe they subdividers to undertake development are the will enable the Government to co-operate key areas, and councils should be concen­ more effectively with local authorities, which, trating on them in regional planning. I know I know, are anxious to co-operate in this the local authorities in my area are looking field, and will allow all parties concerned to co-operate with the Government in this to get on with the job of regional planning field. At the moment they are considering as expeditiously as possible. the commissioning of surveys themselves­ very properly so-because they can see what Mr. WRIGHT (Rockhampton) (3.51 p.m.): is happening, and they know it is undesirable. I listened with interest to the comments of My first purpose in rising was to say that the honourable member for Landsborough areas where this pressure exists and where and the Premier, and if I were now to say tremendous growth is occurring ought to be that Queensland had no planned scheme of the priority areas for regional planning so selective regional development or decentralis­ that we can make sure that we preserve ation, I should imagine that Government the character that is so important from the members would be up in arms and no doubt point of view of quality of community life the Premier would very quickly castigate me. and the long-term viability of the tourist No doubt I would be accused of being politi­ industry. cal and would have the legislation that was introduced in October 1971 and proclaimed My second purpose in rising was to talk in 1972 thrown in my face. about the future of flood plains in South-east It is of interest to read a report pub­ Queensland. It is important for many reasons lished by the Australian Government Pub­ that a balance be struck somewhere along lishing Service in June 1972, of which I the line between the need for the conservation have a copy here. It contains a report of the environment, for example, nursery of a committee of the Commonwealth-State areas for the fishing industry, and the need officials on decentralisation. I point out to provide housing sites and developed areas to all honourable members that this is not in the future. Clearly there is no extreme the report of a Labor Government. It was answer to this question. The answer is not put out by a Liberal-Country Party Govern­ to leave all estuarine flood plains alone; ment. Under the section pertaining to nor is it to tear them all to pieces by way Queensland, it says, on page 76, "There is of housing development. There is a need no formal scheme of selective decentralisa­ for a sensible balance between the two. tion." Unfortunately, here again there exists in the general community-in the real estate com­ One would therefore wonder how the munity, particularly-the philosophy that if Premier could rise today and wave the flag a person buys a piece of land adjacent to about what we are doing in this field in a swamp, or a piece of land that abuts some Queensland. It was obviously apparent in mangroves, he will certainly be allowed to June 1972, only some seven or eight months develop it residentially or by some form of ago, to this Commonwealth-State committee, canal development. comprising many important people who 2972 State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill studied this question very carefully, that Queensland. I ask: Why has it not been there was no formal scheme of selective flexible enough to satisfy the needs and development in Queensland. changes that have appeared over the past 12 I think it is obvious from what our leader months? I believe that the mechanism has said that, whilst we have this legislation on been ineffective because, whilst this Govern­ our Statute Book, nothing has been done ment has had a policy of regional develop­ about implementing it. It could be a very ment, it has embarked on a programme not interesting exercise to find out why. I think of decentralisation but of centralisation. I we will all agree that there is a tremendous am sure that country members will agree need to co-ordinate planning procedures on with me that the freight rates and incentives environmental matters throughout the State. offered are such that in Queensland only the The A.L.P. has advocated this for a long southern firms benefit. It is time we did time, and whilst we were concerned about something about decentralisation instead of some of the provisions of the Bill that was merely talking about it. introduced in October 1971-amendments Statistics compiled in 1971 reveal that 59 were, in fact, put forward by the Opposition­ per cent of Australia's population live in the the principle was supported. We have always six capital cities. Whilst the reports show supported the need for regional co-ordina­ that Queensland is the most decentralised tion and planned development, and we agree State, they also show that 45 per cent of its that the Government should play a major population live in Brisbane. Unless some part in this field. positive measures are introduced, Queensland It is quite obvious from the annual report will follow the trend that has been set in the to which the Premier referred that whilst the other States. This Government should give a Government has some marvellous terms, greater initial stimulus to growth in the thoughts, principles and philosophies, or decentralised areas. It should implement a whatever they may be called, it is all very selective programme and be objective about great in theory but not so great in practice. all this. Very often we tend to play politics. As the honourable member for Lytton said, All our decisions seem to be based not on although it is some 15 months since this objectivity but on political grounds. legislation was passed, nothing has yet been It is important for industries to be encour­ done about it. Regardless of what the aged to become self-sustaining in their areas. Premier might say, regardless of some small This has been tried in many areas, but has programme that may have been established proved ineffective. It will not be effective or of the fact that certain bodies have been unless a positive financial programme is set up, nothing effective has been done in implemented by the Government. the State. People throughout the length and breadth of Queensland have been In 1946 England tried this sort of thing, really wondering what has been going on. I and a definite programme was carried out have spoken to many local authority people, between then and 1960. However, four of who have also wondered what has been the five centres that were selected did not going on. bear fruit. Since then, as a result of other incentives that have been offered and the I was very interested in the flow chart adoption of a concentrated decentralisation in the report that I have just referred to. programme, those centres are developing. It would be a very interesting exercise for those interested in public administration tech­ The ideas that I am expressing are not niques, especially as they pertain to the mine-although I endorse them-but those decision-making process, to ascertain who of certain august bodies and committees. really makes the decisions in this State. It They have been put forward by the Vernon is certainly not the Parliament. In the flow Committee of Economic Inquiry, by a com­ chart there is no two-way process of decision mittee set up by the South Australian making. I wonder what part the regional Government, by a conference convened by co-ordination councils will play. I think the New South Wales Country Mayors it has been shown that local authorities cer­ Development Committee, and by the New tainly do not have any real say in the matter. South Wales Development Corporation. It is generally accepted that the best prospects The chart is divided into three main struc­ of diverting a significant portion of future tural aspects: (1) State departments; (2) population growth away from the major regional co-ordination councils; and (3) cities lie in the promotion of decentralisa­ local authorities and local government tion and regional development. organisations. Yet for all this we have seen a year of inactivity. I ask: Why is it that I wave the flag for Central Queensland, we have had such a "think tank"-if I may because over the past 10 years it has not again use the term? Why is it that, in spite been waved very often. Consideration should of the tremendously large group of people be given to existing industries. The honour­ that have been gathered together from all able member for Mackay raised this matter levels of government and community involve­ and spoke of the various reports that have ment, nothing has been done? been compiled. The Department of Industrial Development has furnished an excellent The conclusion of the report states that a report on the Rockhampton area. The report flexible mechanism has been created for was praised by the Minister for Development regional and environmental co-ordination in and Industrial Affairs, and has been referred State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill 2973

to by Central Queensland members. Com­ Why haven't we, as a Parliament, realised prehensive reports have also been compiled its potential and done something about it? by the Rockhampton and District Promotion I am sure that the Minister for Tourism Bureau on the growth that could be obtained agrees that tourism will be the industry of if the right type of assistance were provided. the 80's; that it will attract finance and fill Some local authorities have also furnished our coffers. We are not doing enough for reports. As well, the Parliamentary Library this industry or for the people engaged in it. contains another report with a blue cover, I have spoken to people in the tourist the name of which escapes me at the industry in my area who have said, "If moment. only we had some way of recouping the I recently attended a meeting convened tremendous expenditure needed to establish by a certain association in co-operation with the facilities in the various regions. we could the Co-ordinator General's Department and press ahead." I suggest that the State should sponsored by the Commonwealth Govern­ take some action in this regard. While ment. I believe it is called N.U.R.D.A.­ taxation powers rest in the hands of the National Urban Regional Development Commonwealth we should look for some Authority. Although I was not invited to way to assist the tourist industry such as attend, I gate-crashed the meeting after having some special depreciation deduction on sent word to the association that I thought I the initial capital investment. It is should be invited, as should all members of obvious from what Mr. Iwasaki said that it Parliament. I was amazed at some of the will cost millions of dollars to establish comments at the meeting. Various officials a tourist industry in Central Queensland. If said, ··we need to know what is going on." we are to have a tourist industry in Mackay, Is that what is wrong with Queensland­ Townsville, Cairns, Bundaberg and the South that we do not really know what is going Coast-and we should-no doubt millions on? Numerous investigations have been and millions of dollars will be required. carried out, but we are now to collate more This money will be found by private enter­ statistics as to what we should do and where prise, but I believe that the Government the potential is. I believe that we in this should also play a part. It should inject Chamber could write a book on the potential finance into the tourist industry. This is not of the State. Every honourable member is a new concept. The New Zealand Govern­ greatly interested in his own area. Each of ment has taken such steps repeatedly. It has us knows and understands the potential of injected millions of dollars into the establish­ his area. It would not be a bad idea if some ment of tourist resorts, although admittedly of these organisations approached members it has allowed private enterprise to come in of Parliament and asked them what they afterwards. I do not fully agree with that, thought could be done in their areas with but at least the New Zealand Government the proper financial support. has been prepared to inject capital into the tourist industry, and that is what is needed We must play an important part in this here. A State managed chain of motels field. We can talk about how big areas up the coast could be a good investment. should be allowed to grow, and I have listened to many debates on this point. It Whether or not we look at it on the basis has been said that we should allow an area of direct investment by the State Government, to grow until it has 100,000 people; that that surely we can at least accept the role of is the size at which an area starts meeting the local government in this field. I am sure service or amenity needs of the people, and that the honourable member for Callide will that a populated area of this size is the agree with me that it is completely unfair only way to get people to leave the metro­ for the burden to be placed on a few shires. politan area. Dr. Colin Clark has contested To take a case in point, the Livingstone that viewpoint and suggested that there should Shire Council has about 4,000 ratepayers, yet be 150,000 people. I have also read reports during the peak tourist period about 25,000 prepared by the Decentralisafon Department people flock to the Yeppoon, Emu Park and in New South Wales stating that an area Keppel Sands areas. It is wrong that the should contain 200,000 people. The main revenue from 4,000 ratepayers, plus a few point is that something must be done. The extra dollars from some of the surrounding Government must intervene; it must become shires, has to meet the cost of providing the involved. It has taken no action at all. necessary facilities in that area. In talking about regional planning and co-ordination of To take a somewhat parochial example, I activities, these are the areas we should cite the tourist industry in the Central Queens­ consider. I do not believe that the Livingstone land region. We have heard a lot about the Shire should have to bear this cost, although Iwasaki proposal put forward by a Japanese it is doing a very good job with the money magnate, who has said that he is willing it has. Surely this is an ideal example of to spend $6,000,000, or $60,000,000 in where the Government could say to a local Central Queensland. We are not sure what authority or to a co-ordinated body in that he intends to do, but at least he is interested area, "Here is $100,000. Do what you can in the area. He said he would spend a large to establish amenities that will really attract sum there because he believes the area has people to this area." Tourism is very potential. Why hasn't the Government moved important. I could also refer to the meat into this area if it has such great potential? industry and other industries. 2974 State and Regional (15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill

There has been a tremendous increase in I can readily understand that local gov­ population in the Central Queensland area ernment members have been concerned because of the coal industry. However, it be·cause the Act does not spell out or is not a sustained industry. It could stop specifically name members of the councils tomorrow. It is an export-oriented industry. in the various regions to be members of If something happened to our coal outlets, the regional co-ordination councils. The Bill it could close down tomorrow. So that will remove that concern. as a Government we should be endeavouring Local authorities can be affected vitally by to get complementary or supplementary any development. They are affected by industries in this area. Future generations all money spent in an area. They are will say, "Why wasn't a steel industry estab­ heavily involved wherever development lished in Central Queensland?", and I do occurs. Sometimes a local authority can not believe that there will be a reasonable pian its facilities and developmental works answer. prior to the actual development because it Regardless of the proposals contained in knows that the development is ahead. This this Bill, which t'he Premier claims are would be the situation in Mt. Isa and on technical, the main point is that nothing the Gold Coast, where the local authority has been done under the existing Act. It had the opportunity to plan beforehand. On has been ineffective, and nothing will be the other hand, whether it wanted it or not, done until the Government gets moving. the Gladstone City Council had rapid develop­ ment and population growth in its area. Mr. ALISON (Maryborough) (4.6 p.m.): Success was thrust upon it because of its I am pleased to support the Premier on the natural resources. Whichever way it goes, introduction of this Bill. The 1971 Act local government must be involved in these was and still is a very important piece of regional co-ordination councils. legislation, which will affect the entire State Mr. Wright: Why didn't you support the and its people as regional co-ordination coun­ amendment originally? cils are appointed and start working, and project boards are brought into being gradu­ Mr. ALISON: For the simple reason that ally and methodically. It creates the blue­ the Premier made it quite clear at that time print for future public works, developmental why it was not spelt out who were to be works and environmental control. It will members of the regional co-ordination coun­ be the means of improving environmental cils. There are different situations in different control in some areas and in maintaining areas of the State. On the coast, for instance, it in other areas. It will be the means it might be necessary to have harbour board of achieving co-ordinated public works representatives. Inland, naturally there would throughout the State and so get the best value be no such representation. The Premier made for the taxpayers' money. Local govern­ this quite clear. Apparently honourable ment works will be included, and they will members opposite were not listening too well. also be co-ordinated. Under this legislation There have been some comments by we will be able to make the best use of Opposition members about the delay in the our natural resources. From the inception implementation of this legislation. Much of this legislation in 1971, the Premier has has been made of this point. But what do stated that local government representatives they expect? Do they expect a magic wand would be appointed to the regional co-ordina­ to be waved by the Co-ordinator,General tion councils. or the Premier, so that all of a sudden regional boundaries are drawn, co-ordination Mr. Houston: How many are on the two councils are working, project boards are boards now? established, and everything else that comes under the legislation is in operation? That Mr. ALISON: I do not know. I have is absolutely ridiculous. I realise that heard the Premier state categorically that Opposition members are there to do a job they will be appointed. No regional co­ and to keep the Government on its toes, but ordination councils have been appointed yet. they are not doing a very good job if they Mr. Houston: That's right. can do no better than they have done so far. They have certainly not been very Mr. ALISON: The Leader of the Opposi­ constructive in their comments. It must take tion should wait till they are appointed and time to get the provisions of an Act working. he will see that they will have local govern­ The implementation of this legislation is ment representation-and in the majority, a massive undertaking, which affects the too. entire State from Thursday Island to the New South Wales border. Mr. Houston: Only because of this Bill. Mr. Houston: What about north of Thursday Island? Aren't you interested in Mr. ALISON: That is rubbish. Right from Torres Strait? the start, the Premier has made it clear that under t'he Act, local government representa: Mr. ALISON: I am very interested in it, tives can be on these councils. However, the as a matter of fact. If I were the Leader Act does not spell out who must be on of the Opposition, I would not mention the the councils. Torres Strait Islanders again. He has been State and Regional (15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill 2975 pushing that issue ever since the session systems, and certainly local authority bound­ started. If I were in his place, I would aries. Consideration would have to be given "lay off" that one. to population centres, industries, comple­ As I see this Act, the first thing to do mentary indus.tries, and last, but certainly is divide the State into regions. Apparently not least, natural resources. All of those some opposition members have not taken things must be taken into account by the much notice of the recent report of the Co-ordinator-General and his department. Co-ordinator-General. It shows that pro I heard the honourable member for Salis­ forma regions have been set up. It is made bury comment-of course, he has done clear by the Co-ordinator-General that it is this time and time again-on land-use intended, after consultation with the local surveys. They are very necessary if the authorities concerned, to amend those bound­ best use is to be made of the State's aries if necessary. That in itself takes time. resources, having in mind environmental Mr. Casey: There have been quite a lot control. I agree with the honourable mem­ of disputes between local authorities over ber on that point and say to him that I which regions they should be in. am in favour of land-use surveys. But for him to say that the Government has Mr. ALISON: I agree with the honourable not carried out land and water-use surveys member for Mackay. I know .that in my is rubbish. In my area alone there has region, where we are trying to do something been a report by an interdepartmental com­ for ourselves, there has been some slight mittee relative to Fraser Island. disagreement. Perhaps we are not too sure which way we want to go. Those problems Mr. Sherrington: As you want to buy will be resolved by the Co-ordinator-General into this, tell me who the members of and his department, in consultation with the that committee were. relevant local authorities. The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. Mr. Houston: What do you think about Wharton): Order! The honourable member the Hervey Bay area? Should it have its for Salisbury will address his questions own local authority? through the Chair. Mr. ALISON: I shall discuss that with the Mr. Sherrington: I asked him because you honourable member at another time. do not know who was on it. Mr. Houston: Now is the time to say it. The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: Order! The honourable member will not reflect upon Mr. ALISON: The first job is to have the the Chair. regions declared. This is not just a matter of getting a map, making red marks on it, Mr. AL!SON: I suggest that the hon­ and then saying, "We have it all cut up ourable member for Salisbury read the nice and tidy now. It is cut into equal report himself. In the first few pages of portions." Even Opposition members should it he will see who was on the committee. be able to understand that there is much I would much rather take notice of the more to it than that. views of departmental officers, some of whom I have referred honourable members are experts in their field, than the irrational opposite to the Co-ordinator-General's report, and very damaging statements made by some which gives a brief outline of the suggested so-called conservation committees. regions, and some indication of why the Mr. Sherringtou: You did not do very State was divided in that way. This map well at Maryborough last Saturday. of Queensland, with its regional delineation, is a blueprint for the development of the Mr. ALISON: We have done very well whole State. It is not something that can at Maryborough. be implemented overnight. Even when pre­ paring a blueprint for a small business of, That report is evidence that the Gov­ say, 50 people and a turnover of $100,000, ernment is using land-use surveys to make time is needed to carry out research into sure that the best use is made of land, finance, sales, and so on. particularly from the point of view of I am sure it can be readily understood environmental control. Of course, it is only by all who have taken an intelligent interest one report. Another land and water-use in this matter that it will even take time to survey is being carried out in the area more or less sort out the regions. There between Tinana Creek and the Mary River, was much work involved in deciding on the between Tiaro and Maryborough. A third regions. one is being carried out in my area by an interdepartmental committee, between I suppose some of the criteria taken into Maryborough and the Elliott River, near account in deciding the position of regional Bundaberg. In view of that, it is absolute boundaries would be rail transport, main and hogwash for honourable members opposite secondary roads, lines of communication, and to say that the Government does not use the location of Government departments. land-use surveys in order to determine the Community of intere9t must be taken into best use of land. consideration as well, and also tourism, water supply, which would include river Mr. Sherriugton interjected. 2976 State and Regional (15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill

Mr. ALISON: I have already suggested trying to take over their activities. Local that the honourable member should read government has been, and will continue to the interdepartmental committee's report on be, a very strong arm of government, with Fraser Island. the particular functions of local government Regional planning has been tried in other as set out in the Local Government Act. areas of the world and in other areas of We also have to make sure that local Australia-in fact, it has been tried in New authorities see the Act as one to assist them South Wales-but unfortunately, for various in co-ordinating their activities and those of reasons, in many areas it has failed. It the State departments. Let us not forget seems fairly obvious to me that the Gov­ the State departments. They would spend ernment of Queensland, through the Co­ much more money than local government. ordinator-General's Department, has learnt When we talk about regional co-ordination, from the mistakes of Governments in Aust­ we tend to think only about local authorities. ralia and elsewhere in the world and is \Ve cannot overlook the funds spent by hastening slowly in this massive task of State Government departments, and must creating and putting into effect a blueprint make sure that whatever the State Govern­ for the future development of this wonder­ ment has in mind in a particular area is ful State. Some of the comments made taken into account for the common good by honourable members opposite seem to of the whole region. indicate that they want the Government In conclusion, I am quite happy to support to rush in like a bull in a china shop, in the Premier's proposed amendments to the order to get regional planning going. My Act. l look forward to a debate in greater advice is to hasten slowly and make sure that detail at a later stage. it works. It is too important a matter for us to rush in and risk having to try to pull Mr. BOUSEN (Toowoomba North) (4.22 things out of the fire later. We should p.m.): I desire to raise a matter of great learn from the mistakes that have been importance and annoyance to some of the made elsewhere. constituents of my electorate. I refer to the Regional planning is of the greatest impor­ operations of a quarry in Harlaxton, a tance, and it is essential, as some honour­ suburb of Toowoomba. Only this morning able members opposite have said, to have I posed a question to the appropriate Minis­ local government co-operation in this field. As ter about the operations and ownership of local authorities come to understand what that quarry. I had hoped to have an answer the Act is all about, I am sure that they to that question before this debate com­ will give their co-operation. menced. The people in the Harlaxton area are greatly concerned about the noise and I have mentioned the alarm-if "alarm" dust emanating from that quarry. The air is the right word-expressed by local auth­ and the environment of the suburb of orities at not being mentioned specifically in Harlaxton are being polluted. the Act. Quite a few members of local authorities in my electorate and elsewhere The quarry was previously owned and have been left with the impression that local operated by the Railway Department. I government was to be excluded completely. understand that it is only in recent months They were not in the gallery to hear the that the lease of the quarry has changed Premier's introduction of the Bill in 1971, hands. When the quarry was worked by the in which he stressed that local government Railway Department, it operated from 7.30 was to be included. However, the message a.m. until 4 p.m. Although there were is gradually sinking home that local gov­ complaints from time to time about the dust ernment is not to be excluded, and it is and noise nuisance during those hours, at absolute rot to suggest that it should be. least the nuisance was minimal compared Local Authority representatives will have a with the problem today. I am told that the majority on the regional co-ordination quarry now operates daily from 5 a.m. until councils, and that is as it should be. 10 p.m., including Saturdays and Sundays. That means that for seven days a week Local authorities are one of the keys people in the area have to put up with a to regional development, and, indeed, local dust and noise nuisance. It is a working­ development. The Government must ensure class residential area in which many shift­ that it continues to take local government workers reside. Shift-workers are unable to into its confidence in the administration of get adequate rest during their off-duty hours the Act, which is of extreme importance because of the noise and dust from the to every area in the State. It must be made quarry. quite clear to local authorities that the Act is designed not to put them out of Mr. Davis: They are always the ones who business but, in fact, to strengthen them. suffer. It will give them a say, through the regional co-ordination councils, in what goes on Mr. BOUSEN: That is true. It is always in their areas and in adjoining shires or the working-class man who has to suffer local authority areas. This will bring about because of environmental issues. Shift­ very orderly co-ordination. We must make workers are unable to get sufficient rest and sure that local authorities understand that the quarry is creating a health hazard to we are not by medium of this legislation them and their families. I understand that State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill 2977 a petition is in the process of being formu­ would say that from this time forward things lated to voice a protest to the Government will happen at an accelerated pace because and the Toowoomba City Council, and I the pattern has now been laid down. believe that it is the duty of the Premier, I want to deal with a few comments that who introduced this Bill, to instruct the have been made in the debate and break Environmental Control Council to have the ground on one new issue. The honourable matter fully investigated with a view to member for Salisbury referred to the pro­ affording some relief. I am personally con­ posed wood-chip industry in the c_airns dis­ cerned for people in my electorate; their trict. I, too, want to say somethmg about problem is my problem. Although I do not that. I confess to the honourable members live anywhere near the cause of the trouble, for Cairns and Barron River that I thought I am concerned on their behalf and that of they were "knockers" when last year they their wives and families and I once again made their speeches in this Chamber about appeal to the Premier to have the matter that industry. I thought they were taking fully investigated. an extreme point of view. But I noticed articles and letters in the Press expressing Mr. W. D. HEWITT (Chatsworth) (4.26 great concern, and this stimulated my interest p.m.): I believe this to be one of the best in the whole subject, so I turned up those debates I have heard in this Chamber for honourable members' speeches, as well as all many a day. Members have spoken with of the questions that had been directed to areat authority and have shown great feeling the appropriate Minister, and tried to ~bout the necessity to protect the environ­ acquaint myself with the pros and cons of the ment. In addition, with the rare exception, projected venture. the debate has been devoid of raw politics. A few weeks ago I made a trip to North I think the Premier can detect the urgency Queensland, and upon my arrival in Cairns I that the Parliament attaches to the necessity met a few friends, said the words "wood-chip for regional planning and proper protection industry", and waited for a reaction. It of our environment. was not long in coming. Believe me, in I cast my mind back to my embryo days Cairns ·the issue is a highly volatile one. I in politics. I was brought up on the simple concede to the honourable member for proposition that Liberals did not believe in Cairns that if a poll were ,taken among the people of Cairns there is little doubt that strait-jacket planning and that those dread­ it would show they would not have a bar ful socialists were the people who would of it. impose planning on us. I must confess that it was an attitude that I embraced and stuck The pity is that the people do not have a to for many a day, and I am glad that sound basis upon which ·to make a rational judgment. I think we have been remiss in maturity has come to my party, as, I hope, not providing sufficient information to them. it has to me. I found only one person who could talk My only reservation about planning these on the matter with authoritative knowledge. days is that it must continue to be flexible He had made an intensive study of it and was and in the best interests of people. It 100 per cent in favour of the establishment must always respect the sentiments, wishes of the industry. I believe that when such and aspirations of people. With that one a major project is envisaged, the people of reservation I now accept the necessity for the State, particularly those of the region planning in a modern society, as, indeed, involved, are entitled to have every fact my party does. It is for this reason that available made know to them so that they can the Parliament embraced with enthusiasm this debate it and enter into dialogue in full legislation when it was ushered into the possession of the facts. Chamber some two years ago. It was not When such a thing as this is envisaged, ushered in merely to allow us to grandstand the people should be told who plans to do on the eve of an election but because there it, the capital that is involved, .the potential was great necessity for it. labour force that will be required, •the roads that will be needed, the harbour facilities I think it is unkind to say that nothing that would be utilised, the total acreage under has happened in the meantime. That is consideration, the acreage that would have just not true. We would make a great mis­ to be devastated, the type of timber that take to expect too much in the short term, would be used, and, lastly but importantly, because any planning is dependent upon good the regenerative process of the timber that will homework and upon ideas being conceived, be used. In possession of all of those facts, planned and then promulgated. Those who people could discuss the project intelligently expected immediate action from this legisla­ and sensibly. I believe .that environmental tion were, of course, doomed to disappoint­ impact statements should precede any such ment. Things on this basis cannot happen projected industry. in a hurry. Before we can define regions and determi<1e what can happen in those regions, My mind is still open on the wood-chip an enormous amount of groundwork has to industry in North Queensland-! do not be laid down, and it is unkind to the people presume to make a judgment one way or the who have worked so hard on this legislation other-but I believe that all relevant facts to say that nothing has happened. But I should be made available, not only in this 2978 State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill

instance but in every case where an industry miles beyond existing developments because that will obviously have some impact on the blocks can be offered with some particular environment is envisaged. advantage such as proximity to the coast, I turn now to another matter ,that concerns or a greater distance from the heart of the me greatly. I am of the opinion that at the city. Those points may have wonderful moment Brisbane is probably one of the advertising appeal, but the subdivision luckiest capital cities in Australia, in the imposes heavy demands on the local sense that it has more unused land in its authority when it has to jump many miles immediate vicinity than any of the other of undeveloped land to provide utility capital cities. If I drive out of my electomte services. Sometimes the development may be for a distance of only a mile into the premature and, in such circumstances, some electorate represented by the honourable authority should be able to say, "Not yet." member for Belmont, I see hundreds of acres I express my concern on this point because of vacant land on either side of me. I see haphazard land development on the perimeter the same sort of thing past Rocklea on the of Brisbane will be to our detriment. While way to Ipswich, or towards the South Coast, things are still running for us, I hope that the Redlands area, or, for that matter, Red­ this authority will look particularly closely c!iffe. But Brisbane will not always be so at the development of Brisbane and its lucky. Mistakes have already been made, environs. but they can be corrected. I turn now to the way in which the One mistake that I cite is the development responsibilities for environmental protection of Sunnybank. In my boyhood Sunnybank are scattered throughout the Ministry. The was referred to as the "salad bowl" of present system is not good enough. The Brisbane and it was a delight to see the farms Clean Water Act is administered by the in the area. Knowledgeable people have told Minister for Local Government. the Clean me that the soil at Sunnybank is ideal for Air Act is administered by the Minister for small crops, but, unfortunately, the developers Health and the Bill that we are now debating have moved in and subdivided the area, is administered by the Premier. Protection with the result that it is completely built of the environment is the big ''thing" of the upon. With deference to my colleagues 1970's. Collectively, as a society, we have who represent Sunnybank, I regard it as a a guilty conscience about the way we have pleasing area, but consider it a great shame raped the surface of the earth for too long. that it was not preserved for its original use Something must be done about it. I believe as a small-crop area. that there is urgent necessity for a Ministry Wherever I drive around Brisbane I see for the environment and planning-two things land development moving in, subdivisions that are obviously complementary. taking place and houses being constructed. I hope that the Premier will view this We have an expanding population and we in the same urgent light as I do. I hope that cannot initiate a programme of zero-popula­ we will have one Ministry administering these tion growth or say that no further homes areas of responsibility. There are problems are necessary. However, I strongly believe in bringing them together, and I suppose they that there should be an overriding authority will be pointed out, but no problem is to determine where development will take insurmountable. We should always look at place, what its nature will be, and when it the reasons for doing something rather than will be undertaken. In the area I refer to at the reasons why it should not be done. there would be a dozen local authorities. If each had its own planning authority and In retrospect, it is a great shame that worked independently of the contiguous haphazard development has taken place on shires, chaos could be the only result. That many islands in Moreton Bay. As the is one of the main reasons why an Act such Minister well knows, it happened because they as this had to be promulgated. were not under the jurisdiction of any local I hope that the honourable member for authority. I made inquiries and found that Redlands, who is to be the next speaker, will some of those islands were freeholded as concede that it is not good enough for his long ago as the turn of the century and area to develop in isolation. It must respect that, for many years, some of them were the wishes of the metropolis and the used for small-cropping and were delightful metropolis must respect the wishes of his places to visit. It is a great shame that a area. previous Government did not say that some of those islands would be locked up totally Mr. Houghton: What do you think about for 50 or 100 years. If some of the islands water and sewerage boards? are still substantially untouched, I hope that Mr. W. D. HEWITI': I think they would it may still not be too late to do that. be very useful indeed. Mr. Houston: I've just been told that the While Brisbane still has luck running for other Bills are ready now. it, it must look very closely at land usage to ensure that orderly development takes Mr. W. D. HEWITT: For the information place. I often wonder about the great demands of the Leader of the Opposition, I point out and stresses developers impose on local that I indicated weeks ago that I desired authorities. Some subdivisions are carried out to speak on this Bill because I have a very State and Regional (15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill 2979 strong feeling about it, as everybody who I agree with the honourable member for has listened to me this afternoon would Chatsworth that this is an area for immediate readily agree. and urgent observation and activity by this important department. How people live­ The history book is studded with mistakes their happiness and health-is the very basis because planning was not implemented early of State development, because that is what enough or there was not an authority such governs how well they work. The present as this one with the power to do what was type of development, and the wastage of necessary. But we learn by our mistakes. land areas, cannot be stopped without an In the case of Queensland, it is still early over-all plan of decentralisation. Eulogies are in the day and we still have the opportunity spoken, and many more are written, about to put many things right. Queensland's marvellous decentralisation I greeted the Bill when it was originally plans. When one looks at this State's vast introduced with great enthusiasm and I still industrial and mining areas, which are there support it with the same enthusiasm. as a result of the geomorphic activities of millions of years ago and not the brilliance Mr. BALDWIN (Redlands) (4.42 p.m.): of a Country Party-oriented Government, and I, like previous speakers on both sides of looks, too, at the relative few who are the Chamber, express my disappointment employed in these industries and, what is at not seeing what I should like to see more ghastly, the meagre return that the contained in the Bill. I am not saying that State receives from them, one wonders what what is proposed is wrong. The Leader of Government members open their mouths the Opposition, in opening the debate for about. the Opposition, said quite explicitly that these However, my chief point of disappoint­ proposals were suggested by the Opposition ment relates to a front-page article in the when the original legislation was introduced Queensland section of this morning's "Aust­ in 1971. ralian", attributed to a person who looks I express disappointment in regard to a as though he will become the leader of particular issue, which is of great importance the Brisbane Liberal Party, thus supplanting to the whole of the south-east zone of the previous poor, uncrowned "king", the Queensland and its hinterland. Unlike the honourable member for Toowong. The honourable member for Salisbury, who was Leader of the Opposition, in asking a ques­ non-party political in his contribution, and tion on this matter, elicited an answer that the honourable member for Chatsworth, who I have been trying to get to the bottom was pleased that party politics had not of for many years-in fact, ever since I entered the debate, I intend to be extremely have been here. Honourable members party political because I believe that this know that I have been generally interested is a party-political matter. in the provision of all-weather, deep-water, containerised port facilities fm Brisbane. The Government Members interjected. honourable member for Lytton has said that care must be taken in the siting of Mr. BALDWIN: Listen to the clucky old industrial areas, because Brisbane's peculiar brood over there. The mere mention of party topography and prevailing winds could result politics sets them fluttering like a mob of in pollutants being blown over the city. virgin pullets in a sand-storm. This is one feature that has been used The honourable member for Chatsworth against this proposal. said that, compared with other capital cities, Let the Air Pollution Council get busy Brisbane was fortunate in having thousands on this problem and determine what would of acres of unused land around it or in be the result of shifting the port, to say, its areas of less dense population. I shall Wellington Point, which is within a few deal with the southern side of Brisbane. It is hundred feet of the deepest water channels not sufficient that land be simply left unused available. There is a depth of 60 feet these days and then claim, "Aren't we good? within three-quarters of a mile of Wellington Here we are, next to nature." When it is Point, a depth of 80 feet three-quarters of fenced and blocked off from the population a mile farther on, and silt-free channels it is unused, and quite useless. It is not ready-made for shipping. I have described good enough to say that we have only occa­ all this many times before. sional areas of high-density population, because the population density can be too Mr. Houston: Only the State Government high. There are many places around Bris­ can do that. bane-for instance, Alexandra Hills in the Mr. BALDWIN: That is correct. I shall Redlands electorate, Cleveland, which is going be mentioning that point as I proceed. the same way, and Capalaba, which is becoming a stinking slime-heap like "Hepatitis The obvious implication in the Minister's Hollow" and "Hepatitis Hill" that Woodridge statement was that the Brisbane Liberals formerly was. Those areas are becoming had to find some big and important point infectious-hepatitis areas where the health to use against Cl em J ones and the Labor of women and children is being crippled. Party at the coming Brisbane City Council This is spreading out into other new areas, election. All that they could get from their and it is not at all pleasant. depleted stock of ideas was the suggestion 2980 State and Regional (15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill of a bayside port. I do not blame the water pollution are proceeding at a frighten­ Minister for Marine Affairs for dissociating ing pace in and around the metropolitan area himself from any collusion with this new­ of Brisbane. Abating these menaces must born, badly camouflaged, illegitimate party become the responsibility of an authority with created through the dirty work of its pro­ the power of the Department of Sl<.~te fligate political parents. The Minister, his Development, unless Labor's policy is adopted predecessor, and his department, have known and a separate Ministry to protect the since 1962 of the proposal to construct a environment of this State is created. In port beyond the mouth of the Brisbane River. effect, this is what the honourable member for Chatsworth suggested. It should have Mr. Porter: Who decided that it was been done long ago. necessary to go into the bay? The Wilbur Smilh plan, designed primarily Mr. BALDWIN: The honourable member to resuscitate the choked lungs of the central is not going to get me into a discourse on business area of the city and to provide a macro-economics. That is where the answer h:gh-demand market for the foreign petrol lies and, by his interjection, I do not think companies stretching another half century he knows anything about the subject. I into the future, has been condemned as am dealing with the very important matter further adding to the noise and air pollution of establishing a port outside the Brisbane of the city. I agree with that contention. River and its connection with regional dev­ The plan enables, and will enable, tens of elopment, and the honourable member can thousands more vehicles to enter into and have his say later if he can find out anything pass through the city of Brisbane. Now, about it. to this vast confluence of traffic, it is pro­ I cannot see a better project for regional posed to add more and heavier traffic by development than the establishment of a establishing not only more. port facilities at port of Brisbane outside the Brisbane River. the mouth of the river but also large factories, The implementation of such a project would because in the Wilbur Smith plan the concern, directly, at least seven local auth­ addi,ional traffic generated by the down-river orities, no one of which, including the expansion will also have to pass through the Brisbane City Council, could implement it city. on its own. Certainly it is true, as the That will be bad enough, but when it is Minister for Marine Affairs indicated in generally agreed that in 10 years' time the his reply, that the strongest opposition to down-river scheme will be insufficient, it is moving the port of Brisbane comes from obvious that money spent to develop this the owners of the $600,000,000 of vested intermediate port facility will be largely interest in the present restricted river wasted-that is, the cost of saving the facilities. $600,000,000 of vested-interest money will In agreement with the honourable member shortly be more than equal to the capital for L\rtton, I am amazed that the Co­ invested. There is a limit to how much ordinator-General, who has to promote of this additional cost can be passed on balanced development over the whole State, to the consumer in the south-east region. It also has to act as regional co-ordinator for is no coincidence that, as a result of this the Moreton region, which has a population retardation and over-slow development of the of about 900,000. Mr. Barton now sits on port of Brisbane, the cost of living in Queens­ countless committees, and it is humanly land's south-east zone is higher than that impossible, I believe, for any one person, in any region of similar population density even if he is as well qualified and long in the whole of Australia. experienced as Mr. Barton, to further extend I suggest that there is no better project his working day. for the Minister for State Development than If one aspect of development needs total that of establishing an all-weather, deep­ State co-ordination more than any other it water, container complex, with round-the­ is the development of modern port facilities city outlets for transport. I am disappointed for South-east Queensland and its vast and that no such provision appears in the pro­ fertile hinterland, stretching west to the posed amendments. I urge the Premier to Charleville area. A port development project embark immediately upon a comprehensive will not only involve a large number of survey of all factors and spheres concerned local authorities; it will also involve most of wi~h providing adequate port facilities capable the 14 Government departments, especially of economic expansion through another half­ the Department of Harbours and Marine. century. The Leader of the Brisbane Civic Party­ Mr. HARTWIG (Callide) (4.54 p.m.): I the would-be Lord Mayor-obviously got his congratulate the Premier on his proposal to information and "dim-vote"-catching idea introduce a Bill to amend the State and from the Brisbane Development Association, Regional Planning and Development, Public of which I believe he is a member. Environ­ Works Organisation and Environmental Con­ mental control and the improvement of city trol Act 1971. As one who has served in environment must be regarded as of para­ local government for a number of years, I mount importance, and I go along with the inform the Committee that on a couple of worthy gentleman and his organisation on occasions I attended seminars held at the that basis. Noise pollution, air pollution and University of New England to discuss regional State and Reg!onal [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill 2981 planning, not only throughout New South to Yeppoon but was incorporated in highway Wales but also in other areas of Australia. construction from Rockhampton to Y eppoon, Therefore, I am pleased to see the amend­ irrespective of the shires it traversed. ment to section 41 of the Act which allows Mr. Houston: The point is that this Act the appointment of local auth~rity members has been in operation for 15 months, but on regional councils to coincide with their still nothing has happened. terms of office in local government. I feel that this is particularly desirable Mr. HARTWIG: I am pointing out what and .I consider it will also be very effective: will happen when these regional planning lt w1ll be effective because, to a great extent committees are set up. Such a committee the people in a region should control thei; would take into account many things, includ­ own destiny. This applies particularly to ing the incorporation of Yeppoon with the Central Queensland and other outlying city of Rockhampton. This would provide regions of this far-flung State. We must not amenities to meet the needs of perhaps an forget that regional planning concerns firstly additional 20,000 people during holiday people. lt includes environmental ~ontrol: periods. Is it fair to ask the ratepayers It means not only the setting up of new of a particular shire-a mere handful of people-to provide by way of rating, taxation indus~ries but also the provision of housing and tne abll1ty of workers to travel comfort­ and hand-outs from Governments, both ably to and from work. In Sydney, with a Federal and State, amenities for a city of 50,000 or 100,000 people who wish to take a popul~twn of 2,750,000, some people have to dn_ve up to 60 or 80 miles a day in holiday in their area? Regional planning travelling to and from work if they do not ,,,.ould alter this situation. use public transport. In my opinion, when regions are established the regional committees will act for the better­ ~he Gover~ment can assist greatly in regional plannmg. First of all, we must take ment of the region as a whole. I also believe a good look at local authority boundaries. that in regional planning we must make Of the 129 local authorities, one of the better use of our land-usage committee. I youngest would be Monto which was estab­ think that if this Bill is to succeed, it is lished as a shire in 19:32. Prior to that, necessary for a land-usage committee most of the local authority boundaries were to ensure 'that land is utilised to its best drawn up in the horse-and-buggy era. Today advantage. It is not good enough simply to allocate land or allotments; i:t is not good w~ find th~ cities spilling over into country enough to say, "We will establish an indus­ shires, wi.th resultant water, sewerage trial site here or there." I believe that a land­ and assoc1ated problems that arise with usage committee could determine this aspect de~elopment: Small shires are reaching the of development. p_omt .of ratmg saturation. I say that in all ~mce~1ty. I do not have any particular shire I have already mentioned the road from 1n mmd. I am considering regional planning Rockhampton to Y eppoon, which, in its over all. present condition, is quite inadequate. I should also like to mention the hospital at We see, .for example, duplication of plant. Yeppoon, which is dependent upon the Rock­ In some mstances, local authority centres hampton Hospitals Board for its priority are scarcely 10 or 12 miles apart. The plant rating. As I have said, there are 6,000 of one shire could probably work two or to 8,000 residents in Yeppoon, and today they three neighbouring shires with ease. Slowly have only an old hospital in the town. I but surely, people are being rated out of small believe that a regional planning committee shires. This is not the fault of Federal, State would take into consideration all necessary or local government. It is the result of a aspects, such as boat harbours, hospitals and set of circumstances brought about by the the like. Let me say also, in fairness to this fact that very few local authority boundaries Government, that we have, to a great extent, have been altered since about 1900, when decentralised. most of the boundaries were drawn. Mr. Davis: Rubbish! Regional planning and local government go ?and in hand. I cite Yeppoon, in the Mr. HARTWIG: It is not rubbish at all. Ca.lhde electorate, and also in the Livingstone Shtre. It has a population of 6 000 to 8 000 The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. It is 26 miles from Rockhampton, a city of Whatton): Order! The honourable member 50,000 people. It is not a great distance for Brisbane is interjecting from other than If from ~merald, Blackwater, Biloela, and many his usual place. he cannot take his usual other mland towns from which people flock place in the Chamber, I ask him to remain to the beach at week-ends and holiday silent. periods. Mr. HARTWIG: Opposition members Today we hea\d about the Rockhampton claim that the Government has done nothing ~oad TransportatiOn Study and the planning about decentralisation of population. As I m the North Rockhampton region to the say, regional development concerns people. Yepp~on tu.rn-off. Surely if we had a regional Industrial development goes hand in hand comm1ttee It would be active in seeing that with people, and people with industrial the highy;ay did not stop at the turn-off development. In New South Wales, with a 2982 State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill

population of 4,600,000, there are only three report-yet another report!-over a two­ provincial cities with a population in excess term period the sum of $30,000,000 will be of 30,000. In Queensland we have five pro­ required to finance and service the needs of vincial cities with such a population. The the community. The debt liability of the situation in Queensland, comparatively, is council will increase at an annual average even better when one considers that the rate of $5,000,000 for the first term and population of Townsville is approaching $4,000,000 for the second term, and naturally 80,000 and, of Rockhampton, more than the inflationary spiral has to be contended 50,000. Therefore, I do not think anybody with. It is expected that the servicing could possibly support the statement that we of the debt will increase by an average of have done nothing about decentralisation. $4,000,000 to $5,000,000 in the next 20 Mr. R. Jones: What have you done about years. it? These are alarming figures and highlight the paucity of resources available to that local Mr. HARTWIG: We have done quite a authority. On existing debt-servicing com­ bit. mitments, a considerable increase in rates I feel that the Water Resources Board would be required. Each year an additional should also be incorporated in the planning $300,000 would be required to service the and development of the environment as the debt. That would mean each ratepayer would conservation of water in our coastal' streams have to pay an additional $45 to $55 a year, should also be undertaken on a regional and that amount would be increased in the planning basis. The local authorities that second period. In other words, the debt­ control a particular watershed have a much servicing requirement alone would mean that better idea of what is required for their by the 1980's each ratepayer would be region than anybody outside the area has. required to pay more than $300 in addition to what he is paying now. I again commend the Bill for what it will do for a young and fast-developing State. In Australia 80 per cent of the population Now is the time to bring these provisions live in urban areas compared with the world into being, and I trust that they will be used average of 50 per cent. In those circum­ to the best advantage of the State and the stances water is a very important requirement. people concerned. When the Premier introduced this measure, he spoke of the regularisation to be effected Mr. HANSON (Port Curtis) (5.5 p.m.): under section 77 to overcome an anomaly This afternoon honourable members are that could arise when a project board was being asked to place their imprimatur upon created by Order in Council to augment what has for the past 18 months been the supply of water in the Gladstone locality. nothing more than political sham and To provide for suitable development in certain window-dressing by this Government. When areas throughout the State, it will be neces­ the original legislation was introduced, the sary at some time in the future to establish intentions of the Government were suspect. a water quality board along the lines of the regional electricity boards, so that people We on this side of the Chamber do not will be able to obtain water at a sensible oppose sensible planning of the State's price. economy or development. However, we object to the Government's attempt by the The industries of large consortiums and introduction of this measure to deceive the others certainly have a part in the economy people. For the past 18 months the Govern­ of the community. When an industrial boom ment has not taken one step towards the hits a community and much employment is implementation of the provisions of the Act. created, a small number of ratepayers should This has been particularly apparent in the not be called upon to meet excessive and Port Curtis-Gladstone area. All we· have onerous increases in rates. This has occurred seen is window-dressing by the Government, in Gladstone and is causing anxiety and and this legislation is nothing more than stress to many people. No doubt some people tinsel. are jealous of the development that has taken place in Gladstone, and many people speak Since the Government assumed control of of it as a boom town, but there are certainly the Treasury benches we have seen report worries associated with the development. after report after report. The Works Depart­ ment carpenters are busily engaged in the While many of the decisions affecting manufacture of cupboards for the storage of Gladstone were made at State Government these reports, which will only gather dust level, with a certain amount of Federal and attract moths. It is time that the Govern­ Government assistance and action, the local ment implemented its plans in a positive way. authority was more or less a bystander. The councillors were not opposed to any scheme The principles of this measure revolve of development; in fact they welcomed it. around the development that has occurred in But they foresaw some of the anxious times the Gladstone area. A tremendous increase ahead. Nevertheless they had to face up to in population flowed from the industrial the task and shoulder their responsibility. boom that occurred, and, unfortunately, the However, an onerous burden was placed on resources of the community were sadly lack­ ratepayers in the community. Many people ing. According to the Co-ordinator-General's who wanted to retire in the area have been State and Regional (15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill 2983 forced to leave the community in which they What advice did it receive from the Govern­ had lived for a number of years. People ment? As usual, the Government was unable who lived in homes occupied by their families to tell the company what it required to know, for generations were forced to leave them so that for six years the people in that area quickly and part from friends of many years' have had to suffer the pollution emanating standing. from those stacks. The consortium has When it is seen in future that a massive apologised to the people in this regard. boom is likely to occur in an area, a much This is another instance of bad planning by better economic plan than the one we have a Government department. had in recent years must be evolved. It is The Opposition suggests that the Govern­ very necessary indeed, in the interests of ment forget about the voluminous reports it all, to ensure that this is so. places before us day after day and the car­ The consortium has met the additional penters who are making the cupboards in charges of water augmentation and is meet­ which those reports will be stored and ing the interest on capital expenditure for the allowed to gather dust. Let it get on with filtration system, although the local authority the job. Let it see that something sensible has to meet the maintenance charges and the is planned, and that the people have to cost of operation. Of course, we are the suffer no further injury. recipients of many amenities. Nevertheless, I believe that all regions have different within a few years' time, we will be a very economic features. They have different highly-rated community. This will cause con­ compositions, and different growth rates. siderable stress. The Government should Naturally, they have different per-capita face up to its responsibilities quickly and incomes, and different population levels. I adequately in this regard. When this legisla­ think that we all agree on that; indeed, tion was originally introduced, we looked it is an integral part of a dynamic economy. for quick action. It is illogical to think that all trends in all stages of economic development are Mr. Hartwig interjected. similar. Because of its great natural Mr. HANSON: I shall reply to that inter­ resources, my area has been looked at with jection in a moment. envy by many honourable members. However, the Government has been found Mr. Hartwig: Plus $38,000,000. lacking. Now, 18 months later, the Govern­ ment wants us to accept this Bill and so Mr. HANSON: I could speak for a endorse its statement that implementation of considerable length of time about the various the legislation has been delayed because of sums of money invested in the area. How­ the need for advice from the Crown Law ever, I am now dealing with planning, Office. I do not believe that this is right. and I have shown the honourable member How many Government members supported for Callide where the Government is lacking the amendments moved by the Leader of in dealing with problems of pollution. I the Opposition two years ago? They were have shown how, when faced with real not moved lightly by him. He was not play­ problems, it is inadequate and lacks direc­ ing politics. He was trying to lead the tion. The Premier knows this story only Government, which is supposed to be looking too well. He came into the Chamber 18 after the interests of the State, along a sane months ago with a large report. He made and sensible path. Yet today, Government a speech, and there were headlines in the members shamelessly throw all types of Press the following day which said in effect, jargon at members of the Opposition and "Good old Joh." expect us to think that they are great fellows I only hope that my words sink in, and who are looking after the interests of this that there is sensible industrial development State. They are sadly lacking and are very in the future. Whilst a number of people inept. I hope that, in 1975, the people make have benefited financially from industrial the right decision and kick the Government development, many others have suffered a through the back door by electing a Labor considerable amount of stress and anxiety. Government. One sees this in the social system that is In answer to the interjection of the hon­ part and parcel of the environment of an ourable member for Callide, who asked me area in which there is large-scale develop­ about pollution control at the alumina plant ment. It may be said that such development in Gladstone and the effect of that pollution is unique. It is in the sense that a great on the environment, let me point out that number of people suddenly enter a com­ the consortium is spending $1,000,000 on munity. But, for the most part, they are pollution control at the moment. I do not inadequately housed. I do not say that blame the company entirely for what hap­ the Government is able to wave a magic pened in the first place because, in 1966, wand and place them all immediately in before it erected chimney stacks and inserted nice homes with nice gardens. Nor can boilers following its decision to use Moura it wave a wand and provide swimming coal, it made every endeavour to obtain from pools, child-care centres, and other facilities. the Government the specifications of the But I do believe that when a consortium burning qualities of that coal, to ensure that sets up an industrial enterprise, it should, the community was not injuriously affected. in order to have a contented work-force, 2984 State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill meet its heavy obligation to provide a good I mentioned by interjection the sort of social life for its employees, and their thing that is happening. Three days ago wives and families. the Brisbane City Council agreed to the establishment of an extractive industry that This is very desirable indeed, and it is could have enormous effects on the environ­ also to the advantage of the company mental quality of quite a large and beautiful concerned. Industrial confrontation can be area of Brisbane. One would expect some minimised if companies have highly trained reaional action in the future to try to social workers associated with their enter­ ov~rcorne such a problem which, to me, is prises. There are in the community many quite serious. The same thing could happen, people with grave social problems. I see of course when local authorities in the such people in my office every day of south-east~rn region develop darns that will the week when I am in Gladstone. Many suit their own local requirements. The con­ of them need guidance in marriage problems, sideration of the south-eastern area of Queens­ and in their ordinary social undertakings. land as a whole is not coming into play They need assistance to obtain a better way at this stage. Instead of declaring one or of life. It is incumbent on the Government two areas and going into them thoroughly, to see that such large industries show a we should declare a large number of areas sense of responsibility in this matter and and get the councils operating, taking into do what they can to ensure that the people consideration major points at an early stage of this State who accept the job opportunities and finer planning at a later stage. I think that they present are contented people. that is the answer to the problem. We should try to stop now what could be enormous (Time expired.) problems in years to come. For instance, the Department of Industrial Development Mr. CHINCHEN (Mt. Gravatt) (5.25 p.rn.): might select a site today which is a totally Let me say at the outset that I do not intend incorrect site for industry. That could to speak at any length; I wish to make only happen in any region. For that reason, one or two points. it is obvious that the major problems should be looked at and the smaller ones left till I was surprised to hear the harsh and vindictive speech made by the honourable a later stage. member for Port Curtis. It indicated to I should like to see the south-eastern region me a complete lack of understanding of really moving now so that the major prob­ what is taking place. To him, putting lems of local authorities could be taken through legislation means that something will into consideration. Detailed planning and happen overnight and that everybody will be the enormous studies needed must continue. able to see what is happening. Competent But let us allow major difficulties that will staff must first be obtained, which the hon­ affect livina conditions and the environment ourable member does not seem to realise. to be con;idered by the higher authorities, I say now that Mr. Barton and Mr. Schubert to make sure that we are not creating prob­ are two of the finest public servants this lems that cannot be solved later. It is too State has known. They are doing a mag­ late when that happens. nificent job under enormous pressures, and under them, of course, there must be a large Mr. Casey: The south-east corner has number of people to implement the require­ been getting all the cream for years. ments of the legislation. It is not a question of running a "pub", and I do not doubt Mr. CHINCHEN: That is a strange state­ that the honourable member for Port Curtis ment. I have just pointed out to the Com­ is an expert in that field; it is a question of mittee that three days ago the Brisbane City enormous grass-roots organisation and plan­ Council approved the starting of an extractive ning, and I think it is wrong to expect to industry in one of the better areas of see overnight or within a matter of months Brisbane. If that is the cream, the people the results of what has been done under the of Brisbane do not want it! original legislation and what will be done under the proposed amendments. What is happening in this area? Let me give you the oackground to it, ¥r. Wharton. In my opinion, the problem at present A brickworks applied some time ago for is one that we just cannot overcome. It the land in question. Its application was is what is happening today that will have rejected by the Brisbane City Council, and an effect on regional planning when it everybody was happy. An applicatior;t . to becomes effective in a month's or a year's divide the area into a 10-acre subdiVISIOn time. I wonder whether there is an answer was refused. Another brickworks applied to it. I should like to think that, on matters for this large area of land for an extractive of major importance, local authorities would industry, and it was refused. A second now go to Mr. Barton or to members of application was made and it was approved his staff and indicate what they intend to do, by the Brisbane City Council. Why does to see whether it will fit in with the co­ that sort of thin" happen? One brickworks ordinating body's knowledge of areas, limited cannot have it, '\ut another can! This is as it may be at this stage, and whether all very strange. This is the sort of thing the proposal is sensible or otherwise. that happens in the Brisbane area. State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill 2985

By some ll!ear;s or other let us get a My main point in rising was to urge that skeleton orgamsatlon to deal with matters of we get quick development in all areas to n;:tajor importance at the earliest possible cover major things. Let us do that first. t1me .. I know that this is not easy. Regional Let us not go into great depth in a par­ plannmg takes a long while to develop. I ticular area. Let us get our fundamental should like to. t~ink that important proposals planning in most regions so that we can such . a_s the s1tmg of large industrial areas, prevent things happening that we would regret the s1tmg of extractive industries and major plans hke that of the Albert Shire plan in later years. ar~ vetted today. It is too late to do any­ thmg after these things come to fruition. A Mr. LICKISS (Mt. Coot-tha) (5.35 p.m.): water commission or a water board in the The Bill before the Committee, as the south-eastern region is needed now, not in Premier has said, is purely of a machinery two or three years' time. In five or six nature. I have listened with a great deal of years' time we will have insurmountable interest to the very interesting debate on proble;ms. The problem may not be that this measure. I agree with the honourable there 1s not enough water but that the mains member for Chatsworth that it has been one are inadequate to get the water from point of the best debates we have heard in this A to po!nt B. Brisbane supplies water to place. It certainly shows the great awareness other sh1res, as some shires again do to of what the Government has been endeavour­ others. We know now that in five or six ing to achieve, which is regional strategic years' time there will be a big water problem planning combining that planning with the m some areas. Water storage and reticulation environment and tying all this to the State should be the responsibility of a body that works programme. In this regard, Queensland looks at ,the whole region, so that it can has taken an advance step far beyond all make the best use of available water other States; so much so that most other resources. We should abandon the present States are now looking at our legislation and, piecemeal approach. with some modesty, I believe that the Com­ monwealth is, too. I s~ould like to think that the regional authonty could start working on major things. I have heard that some Opposition mem­ I do not think it is necessary to make bers, particularly the Leader of the Opposi­ thorough investigations into minor matters. tion and l think the honourable member for L~t ~s havt? a body that can say, "Yes, Salisbury, said that we had now taken cog­ th1s 1s all nght for a local authority. We nisance of what was moved by way of ?o not think this one is all right, and this amendment when the original legislation was 1s why we do not think it is in the interests introduced in 1971 and that, acting on that, of the region." The south-eastern region, we were now amending the legislation to where probably 75 per cent of the people insert a provision for local government to o_f the. State now reside, requires urgent con­ be represented. Let me again say that the SideratiOn. I am very pleased that some­ Premier would have been misleading the t~ing is happening in Mackay and Towns­ Committee had he said that no new principles vllle. I kr;ow the yroblems of getting down were involved in this Bill if this were the to the vanous regwns that are necessary in case. This would have been a new principle, the ~tate.. The south-eastern region needs but it is not one that is involved here. cor:sideratwn by reason of the major moves Frankly, the representation on regional which could create a blight in years to councils and other relevant bodies is still come, something which at this moment could the same as it was in the original legislation. be obviated if we had this organisation What has happened is that when legislation looking at the situation from the regional is drawn up, as honourable members would point of view. well know, lay drafts are prepared by the department concerned and are then presented Many problems are encountered in the to the Parliamentary Draftsman for the draft­ regions. The environmental question has ing of the legislation. In other words, the been well debated. We know that there is clear intention of the legislation is spelt out water pollution, air pollution and noise in lay form and handed to the Parliamentary nuisance. Noise. is creating a big problem Draftsman, who then draws up the legislation for local authonties. It is necessary that in legal form. Again, when regulations are all factors of environmental quality be under formulated, they are first done by way of a o_ne Minister-the Minister who is respon­ lay draft and are then submitted to the sible for development. That subject has Crown Law Office. been canvassed here today. The Premier may remember that I wrote to him some One problem that faces all departments­ years ago about this matter. At that stage and it has particularly faced this department he said, "I don't think the time is quite here in this instance-is the outlook of the particu­ yet." I think it is here now. All these lar officers who draw up the legislation and matters should be under the control of one of the officers who look at the legislation Minister, because each has an impact on the when determining whether regulations are other. We have all encountered the situa­ within or outside the ambit of the measure. tion of an industry having three problems, This is the sole reason for the introduction each of the problems being a matter for of these amendments today. Therefore, I feel consideration by a different Minister. that the Opposition would be getting cold 2986 State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill satisfaction indeed if its members feel that Some of the Opposition's political ilk have they have in some way motivated the intro­ claimed that this legislation will do two duction of this legislation. things. Firstly they allege that it will tak.e away from local government the responsi­ Mr. Houston interjected. bility that it presently has and will thereby lessen its importance. Secondly, they claim Mr. LICKISS: I am not levelling any that it will introduce another tier of local complaint against the Parliamentary Drafts­ government by way of regional councils. I man or the Crown Law Office. What I am am sure that if we were to do this our saying is that under our system the Parlia­ action would receive the approbation of the mentary Draftsman could draw up legislation Opposition's Federal colleagues. After all, on what is called the "macro" system. He Mr. Calwell is on record as saying that he would look at broad aspects of legislation on would like to see 57 States in Australia, the principle of law which says, "That which each with administrative capacity but without you can create you can destroy by the same autonomy. means." On the other hand, another person might look at law with a "micro" attitude, The Labor Party would like us to follow which looks at every dotted "i" and crossed such a pattern, but we have not done so. "t" and, if it is not explicit, he says that Instead, we have J.lreserved the present two­ everything must be spelt out in full. tier system of government in this State, and I am sure that when this sinks in it will This is precisely what happened with this receive the approbation of the people as well legislation. It can happen to all Govern­ as of local government. I thought the Leader ment departments, and in this instance the of the Opposition would appreciate that we department finds itself as the ham in the are not breaking down our sovereignty one sandwich. I think this is one thing we should way or the other. If any tier of government look at in the formulation of legislation, is trying to break down our sovereignty, it and also in the proclamation of regulations. is the Federal Government. Its basic plan is the elimination of State Governments. Mr. Houston: Our amendments were also I am happy to argue the philosophies behind drawn up by the Parliamentary Draftsman. this matter any time the honourable gentle­ man desires. 1\ir. LICKISS: I agree that they were drawn up by the Parliamentary Draftsman. The other point made by the Leader of They were well prepared and very clear in the Opposition was that the Government was their intent. In fact, they were not acceptable forced to introduce these amendments to because at that time the Government, and make the Act operative. the Minister concerned, did not think they Mr. Houston: The Premier said that. were practical. This aspect was canvassed before the legislation was introduced at that Mr. LICKISS: No, he didn't. time. Mr. Houston: He said they were machinery Mr. Houston: They are. amendments to make the Act operative. Mr. LICKISS: The Act is operative in that Mr. LICKISS: The Leader of the Opposi­ the department has been completely re-formed tion says they are. Let me give him an and revamped, which was no mean effort example. I think he suggested that local in itself. If the Act were not operative, government be represented-that this be spelt that could not have been done. out. He also suggested that electricity boards The Premier has indicated that two should be represented, and that this, too, be regions are to be set up, and they can be spelt out. set up without these amendments. The l\1r. Houston: And harbour boards. subtle point is that a region will not neces­ sarily be permanent and might have to be be altered or even cancelled and recon­ l\rlr. LICKISS: Frankly, if we were going stituted. It might be necessary to combine to bring down an amendment along those two regions into one or, conversely, divide lines, one would think the Leader of the one region into two. We found that one Opposition might now introduce a representa­ school of legal thought was that it could tive of the Commonwealth Government be done by regulation, whereas another body because the Commonwealth Government is of opinion adopted a "micro" attitude and buying into everything, including regional asserted that it could not be done unless planning. Does he think we should make pro­ the Act was amended. If we look at a vision for the Commonwealth Government? region in that vein we also have to look What we are saying is that on careful at the regional council, and the same flexi­ examination it is very difficult to spell out bility must be related to the appointment of in detail whom we are going to put on this council. However, the Premier has already that council. stated that this Bill was based on co-operation Mr. Houston: Suppose you did change a and co-ordination between the State Govern­ region after a period of time. How would ment on the one hand and local government you distribute the debts that had been on the other. Without that co-operation and incurred by the old council, or loans that co-ordination, this system must fail. had to be repaid by it? State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill 2987

Mr. LICKISS: I would suggest that this "Look at what we have done." All it is is a matter of Government policy, and I am doing is looking at our information, which is sure that, as this Government will be in an exercise we could carry out ourselves­ power at the relevant time, it will be done and we will carry out ourselves. I should on an equitable basis. I am sure that the think that our decisions will be as good as Government of the day will deal with each or better based than theirs. case on its merits. l do not disagree with the suggestion that A conflict of legal opinions arose prior the Commonwealth should look at growth to the introduction of this legislation. I hope centres around Australia, but I do disagree I have proved that the Act is operative that on every occasion when it moves into and that the regions are being constituted a situation it should impose so many tags and the regional councils appointed. This on its involvement. It virtually tries to buy is being done in consultation with the local its way in, as though it were buying authorities, and I thought that members of into a company. The State has sovereign the Opposition would be pleased to hear powers under which the Government this. can develop the State, and this State Having heard the Premier say that the Government has delegated certain power to regions of North Queensland and Mackay local authorities by legislation. We aim at would be set up, I was amazed to hear the keeping it that way. While we appreciate all honourable member for Lytton claim that the Commonwealth assistance we have this was wrong and that we should be con­ obtained and hope to obtain, we will not centrating on the south-east corner of the accept it at the expense of losing State State. sovereignty. As soon as the Commonwealth Government realises that, the better we will Mr. Houston: He didn't say that at all. all get along together. Commonwealth He said it was also necessary to have a participation in this field has nothing to do look at Brisbane. with the action taken by the Queensland Government. The Queensland Government Mr. LICKISS: He expressed the thought went into the field of regional planning on a that this would be the area in which we basis hitherto unexplored by other States or would move first. If we were to do that, we would be accused of being a "Queen other countries. I might also say that its Street" Government. action has been well and favourably commended. The Commonwealth Government has stated that Townsville is one of Australia's growth I should like to examine the "words of centres. wisdom" emanating from Messrs. Uren and Whitlam. They are getting reasonable socialist Mr. Houston: You are only coming into briefing, and I was in Canberra when similar Townsville in an attempt to match the Com­ views were expressed by people assembled at monwealth Government. the National University Urban Studies Unit. It is coming from the urban studies unit of Mr. LICKISS: We are establishing the the National University. I could give honour­ To:v!lsville region. . It will be easy to able members the name of one of the fac1htate the establishment of that region research men who is writing for Mr. Uren but establishing one in the south-east come; on this subject, but as a matter of principle of the State would be a rather complicated I will not do so. I ascertained this informa­ ~rocedure. I think the Leader of the Opposi­ tion at a seminar that I attended as a twn would be the first to admit that. counsellor of the Australian Institute of Urban I confidently expect that a number of Studies. If Opposition members believe that reports on these growth centres will be the Federal Government has suddenly come published by N.U.R.D.A. Reference has been up with something new I point out to them made to the Commonwealth Government's that it has been known to this Government action in conducting investigations into the for a long time, and it has been quietly growth centres. On the other hand the acted upon when it fits in with our policy. Opposition says that nothing has been' done It is interesting to note that, on delving in Queensland. I pose the question: on what further into the policy as expressed by Labor information is N.U.R.D.A. presenting its spokesmen in the Press, it appears that land reports? Incidentally, N.U.R.D.A. is now to may be acquired, subdivided and allocated be known as the Commission for Cities. The under leasehold tenure for housing and other Opposition's own party is not keeping it up purposes. I forecast that there will be an to date with how this body is to be renamed. attempt, by way of Commonwealth-State participation, to force socialist policies onto Where does the Opposition think the this State unless we are alert to that N.U.R.D.A. consultants are getting this possibility. information? It is coming from the State Co-ordinator-General's Department and other An Opposition Member: You aren't departments. They are not looking into a coming through. crystal ball and saying, "This is the way Queensland should go." If there should be Mr. LICKISS: I may be speaking over a double dissolution in the Commonwealth the honourable member's head. He knows Parliament, Labor will not be able to say, very little about this subject. 2988 State and Regional [15 MARCH 1973] Planning, &c., Bill

Today criticism was levelled at the Gov­ Hon. J. BJELKE-PETERSEN (Barambah­ ernment on the score of decentralisation. It Premier) (5.52 p.m.), in reply: Mr. was alleged that it is non-existent in Queens­ Wharton-- land. It is interesting to note that eight of Mr. Bromley: Mr. Wharton-- the 13 major cities and towns in this State have a growth rate higher than the national The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. average. Our record in this field surpasses Wharton): Order! I call the Premier. that of any other State. It is also interesting to note in relation to decentralisation that Mr. Sherrington: You didn't look over here Queensland is, and for many years has been, at all. the most decentralised State in the Common­ Mr. Bromley: I won because I said, "Mr. wealth. Wharton". One of the great problems I see facing the The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: Order! Governments of Australia, both Common­ I saw the Premier rise in his place first and wealth and State, and one of the great I called him accordingly. problems facing both national and State development, is that no centralised form of Mr. SHERRINGTON: I rise to a point government implementing a uniform system of order. You did not look at the Opposition for the development of Australia can at all. The honourable member for South adequately cope with the job. The problems Brisbane was on his feet well ahead of the of the Sydney-Newcastle-Woollongong com­ Premier. pl~x in New South Wales, and of Melbourne and environs in Victoria, are not necessarily The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: Order! I those facing Queensland, Western Australia, called the Premier, and I again call the or Tasmania. To have a uniform policy, which Premier. seems necessary with Commonwealth central­ Mr. Bromley: You called him because you ised government, as a means of helping are a friend of his. State development is wrong in concept, and I do not think it would be successful in The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: Order! implementation. I ask the honourable member for South Brisbane ,to withdraw that statement. I believe I have shown that much has been done. A new department has been Mr. Bromley: I withdraw it. You are not set up. It has been admitted by the hon­ a friend of his. ourable member for Mackay that a regional survey has been completed in his The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: The area. But no regional survey, as such, is ever honourable member will withdraw it or I completed. Planning of a strategic nature will deal with him. must of necessi,ty be flexible and must be Mr. Bromley: I am withdrawing it. I a continuing study because there are new said, "You are not a friend of the Premier." inputs in planning all the time. It is because of this that regional planning will Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: I must reproach be updated continually, from day to day, two Opposition members-the Leader of and this is the purpose of r,egional advisory the Opposition and the honourable member councils. It is because of this ,fuat there for Port Curtis-for their very sharp will be a free flow of information from criticism of the department, quite a]:1art from the regional advisory councils on the one me, in saying that nothing has happened after 15 months, ,that the whole thing is hand and the Government on the other. nothing but a shambles, and that the officers The honourable member for Rockhampton have only been engaged in making pigeon­ seems to be keen on his ability to read holes and cupboards. Such statements show flow charts. If he reads the flow chart the complete and utter ignorance of the correctly in relation to the structuring of the two honourable members and, indeed, their Co-ordinator-General's Department and in ingratitude. relation to regional planning and environ­ The honourable member for Port Curtis mental control, he will find ,fuat it flows knows full well that a report was produced both ways. He has obviously misinterpreted by the Co-ordinator-General's Department it. I commend that thought to him. over three years ago on the over-all needs of the area. It resulted in the preparation I congratulate the Co-ordinator-General of a town plan, and it envisaged a regional (Mr. Ba11ton), the Deputy Co-ordinator­ board to supervise the development and General (Mr. Schubert) and their staff on provision of an adequate water supply. All doing something that I do not think has often of this happened in his own area. Surely he been done in Australia, that is, they have does not claim that he is completely ignorant reoriented their department, formulated new of what has happened in his area because guide-lines, and succeeded in placing Queens­ of the work done by the Co-ordinator-General land in the forefront of regional development and his deputy? He should be downright and environmental control. I support the ashamed of himself for the way he spoke legislation. about those two gentlemen. State Planning, &c., Bill [15 MARCH 1973] Sugar Experiment, &c., Bill 2989

Mr. HANSON: I rise to a point of order. Mr. Houston: You couldn't afford to pay did not refer to Mr. Barton or the other any of their salaries unless the Common­ gentleman. I attacked the Government only. wealth Government came into it. Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: The honourable Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: This work was member cannot attack the Government with· carried out with Queensland money in the out attacking the gentlemen sitting on my first place. left in the lobby. They are the ones respons­ Information compiled by the staff of the ible for what has been done, and I stand Co-ordinator-General is being used in the here in their defence. The honourable mem­ Fitzroy and Moreton areas, and these officers ber should be the last one to criticise and are also helping in other ways that have condemn the Government or departmental been much appreciated by the Common­ officers. He should stand up and say, "I wealth Government, even if they are not am sorry. I am completely ignorant of what appreciated by honourable members opposite. has happened in my own area." Environmental statements are now required for major projects, both public and private. Since the passing of the Bill in 1971, In the field of public investment, some r necessary to alter some administrative of the bureau officer, for example, in rela­ powers under the Act. The Sugar Experi­ tion to the levy rate to be declared. It i' ment Stations Board has been acting as proposed that such a restriction should be trustee for cane pest and disease control the subject of a regulation in due course. boards in the matter of the purchase of land by such boards. A recent legal doubt Where two and no more than three mill areas has arisen as to whether the board has constitute a cane pest and disease infested this power to hold land as a trustee. The area it is possible for the three cane-grower proposed amendment removes this doubt. me~bers to be elected from only one mill area. In terms of disease control it would Three other small amendments of an obviouslv be desirable to have a member administrative nature involve a general power from e

By increasing the membership of pest the directorship of the bureau. Certainly, a boards from five to six, it is desirable that production revolution has taken place in the the quorum for a meeting should also be intervening period. increased from three to four, and the Bill Many individuals and sections of the provides accordingly. industry have contributed to this production The section of the Act relating to the increase but a considerable contribution constitution of cane pest and disease control would have been made by the Bureau of boards has been re-enacted for the sake of Sugar Experiment Stations under Mr. King's .:larity and the insertion of amendments in guidance. Some of the bureau's contributions of a logical order. These amendments deal very significant value have been the breeding with the additional bureau member, the and release of new varieties suitable to the quorum for meetings and the special carry-on various areas and scientific fertiliser recom­ powers conferred on the Sugar Experiment mendations, which I should say have reached Stations Board during a period intervening a very high standard of technology at the between the winding up of one board and moment so that fertilising is no longer the the constitution and election of a new board. hit-and-miss, trial-by-error practice that it The general trend in the cost of pest and used to be. This is due to the high standard disease control has been upwards, year by of research by the bureau, the results of year. An extreme case is the escalating cost which have been passed on to farmers. of the Fiji campaign being conducted by The bureau has also dealt with pests and the pest boards at Bundaherg. In such diseases. Fiji disease is taking a great toll .:ases effective disease control may warrant and causing endless trouble and expense in the striking of a levy above the present the Bundaberg area, even if it is not affecting maximum assessment of Se per ton of cane production greatly. I certainly hope that the permitted under the Act. One of the control measures introduced by the bureau amendments provides for this contingency, will halt this menace before production but any such levy above Se would be subject figures are affected to a greater extent. to the approval of the Governor in Council and on the recommendation of the Sugar Speaking of pests, as a grower I suffered Experiment Stations Board. very heavily a few years ago following an infestation of cane grub, and in case we tend The Bureau of Sugar Experiment Stations to forget the prevalence of pests within the is noted internationally for its technical pro­ sugar industry, I can assure honourable ficiency. It is also well known that the members that something new is always Queensland sugar industry finances the bulk cropping up to remind the cane farmer of the of its research. This year the Government great practical value of the contributions provided a grant to the bureau of $100,000 by the bureau towards his prosperity-when for special research projects, and it may there is prosperity-and certainly towards his be of interest to learn that some of this efficiency on the farm at all times. finance has been allocated for Fiji disease control at Bundaberg. We welcome the appointment of Mr. Owen The present amendments are wholly Sturgess as Director. This is perhaps a little belated, but I do not think there has been designed to provide the necessary strength a measure dealing with the sugar industry and legislative backing in support of the administrative, research and extension efforts before the Chamber since he was appointed. We are very pleased to see appointed as of the Bureau of Sugar Experiment Stations and cane pest and disease control boards. Director a man who has devoted so much time to the bureau in the past, and we expect I commend the Bill to the Committee. that this invaluable contribution from the bureau will continue under his directorship. Mr. BLAKE (Isis) (7.2S p.m.): It would The bureau's help will certainly be needed appear from the Minister's introduction that in the future as much as if not more than it this Bill is purely machinery in nature but has been in the past. We reach certain stan­ that events within the sugar industry in dards and, like the four-minute mile, we recent times have made its introduction neces­ feel that a betterment of them is unattainable. sary. However, standards are constantly being sur­ Before commenting further on the proposed passed and every crisis and every generation measure, I should like to take this oppor­ of cane-growing seems to bring about the tunity of paying a brief but genuine tribute achievement of new objectives that we had to Mr. Norman King, who retired from the not thought were possible. position of Director last June after 42 years In the light of this, the gap between the with the bureau, 24 of them as Director. cost of production and profitability, on As the Bill was brought down rather normal prices, is closing, and there is a hurriedly because the Government's legis­ definite limit to the contribution that tech­ lative programme fell apart somewhat at nology can make. By that, I do not mean the seams today, I have not had time to go that technology is no longer of importance. thoroughly into the matter, so I do not know It is vitally important and will continue to what the figures for the sugar industry's be of great importance in the future. How­ production would have been 42 years ago, or ever I do not think that in the years to even 24 years ago, when Mr. King took over corn~ we will see any development in the 2992 Sugar Experiment Stations [15 MARCH 1973] Act Amendment Bill sugar industry that alone will stave off an chairman as this could bring about an economic recession. Our sugar industry is imbalance of power. In other words, in up against keen competition and sells in future he will contribute not as an adviser excess of 70 per cent of its production on but as a member of the board. That is export markets. Contrary to what has occurred excellent. Judging by remarks made to me in the past, I do not think that the economic by certain members of the bureau, if that difficulties that will face the industry in the had been the position formerly a more future can be contained by applied technology efficient effort at locating Fiji disease could alone. have been mounted, and this might have As to the machinery provisions of the Bill, eliminated the dire circumstances confronting many other statutory organisations have the future of the main variety of cane grown power to delegate authority and I would have in the Bundaberg area. There will be no thought that in this instance, too, the Minister "kick" from the Opposition on the appoint­ would have had power to delegate authority. ment of bureau members to pest and disease But apparently there are certain loopholes control boards. that need to be closed from time to time. While no-one likes paying heavier levies, The alteration in title from Assistant Director I think the sugar industry, particularly the to Deputy Director is self-explanatory as is growers' section, is sufficiently realistic to the 30-day extension of time in which to know when an additional levy is necessary. prepare annual reports. The period between As the Minister pointed out in his introduc­ 30 June and the date by which the report tory speech, an increased levy will certainly be was previously expected to be prepared did necessary in the Bundaberg area. Control not give the bureau sufficient opportunity to measures being undertaken are very extensive. correctly record its yearly activities. but under the existing legislation levies suf­ I commend the Government on its inten­ ficient to meet eradication costs could not tion to add a bureau member to pest and be imposed. The increase in the levies is disease control boards. In fact, I think this necessary, and we approve of the proposed step is a rather belated one-and I do not say amendment. This is the first contribution, and that in any retrospective critical manner. we hope it will be the last. It is a matter Almost invariably, technical officers are of a stitch in time and the ability of the called in on discussions when cane pest and pest and disease control boards to get suf· disease control boards sit in various areas, ficient money to meet the crisis. Perhaps the and there is a need for a technologist to be Minister might tell me whether the increase on tap so that the extension services provided in levies can be imposed by the board' by the boards can be satisfactorily given. in the specific districts, or whether the Any doubt about such a need can be dis­ matter has to be referred back to the Sugar pelled by an inspection of the devastation Experiment Stations Board. caused in the Bundaberg area by Fiji disease. Mr. Sullivan: I cannot give you an answer Mr. Tucker: What exactly is it? immediately, but I think you are right. Mr. BLAKE: It evidences itself by a distor­ Mr. BLAKE: We have no fear of anybody tion of the cell structure of the leaf. I am becoming too enthusiastic about imposing the not expert enough to know whether it extends levy in any area to meet a crisis, because into the cellular structure of the cane stalk. there are sufficient highly qualified men on The disease upsets the cellular structure of the Sugar Experiment Stations Board to deal the leaf, and inhibits the growth of the cane. with such a possibility. Cane that is afflicted by the disease suffers As this matter came before us quite from very severe stunting and appears to unexpectedly, we reserve the right to make be growing back into the ground. Some further comments. No doubt we will have other cane diseases, although a great nuisance, a great deal more to say at the second­ allow a grower to obtain some return for reading stage. his crop. But once Fiji disease becomes a severe threat to a particular cane variety I have said that the functions of the the entire variety is condemned if the disease sugar experiment stations will be vitally is not brought under control. It results in important in the future because, apart from complete unprofitability for a particular the rosy outlook of the sugar industry ai variety. In addition, other varieties are sus­ present in terms of inflated world prices, a ceptible to the disease to a great or lesser crisis situation is even now approaching in extent. No disease can he allowed to run terms of the administration of sugar markets. rife in any sugar area. I think it is in May and September that Bundaberg pmvides a prime example of the negotiations will be held in Europe on a new wisdom of having technologists sitting on International Sugar Agreement, and the every cane pest and disease control board. present stable position could quickly deterior­ When they were "on tap" their advice was ate in the face of the problems confronting always very valuable, but they had no real people who export onto the world free authority other than as advisers. I under­ market. The Commonwealth Sugar Agret:­ stand that a bureau member will now have ment with Britain expires in 1975, and the full rights on a board, except that he will fact that 335,000 tons of our well-priced not be able to vote in the election of a sugar will be phased out under the terms of Sugar Experiment Stations [15 MARCH 1973] Act Amendment Bill 2993 the present International Sugar Agreement sugar industry. It should be viewed as with no place to go, is a matter of grave nothing but the right of that industry. Know­ concern. ing the representatives that Queensland has lf the supply-and-demand position on the in the Federal Government, and the Minister world market should remain as it is-that is, himself-- demand is exceeding supply and consumption Mr. Bjelke-Petersen: They will not get is exceeding production-Australia's outlook anything. in having this 335,000 tons given alternative avenues within an International Sugar Agree­ Mr. BLAKE: The Premier says that; I ment will be very good indeed. I am hopeful do not. that this will be the case. (Time expired.) As a relatively small producer of sugar in terms of production, but as the second­ Mr. BIRD (Burdekin) (7.47 p.m.): I am largest exporter of sugar, Australia is in a pleased indeed to be able to speak this very vulnerable position on world free evening on the introduction of the Bill by markets. If the tight position prevails we the Minister. In the first place, I con­ stand to weather this crisis without any great gratulate the man who was Director of the convulsions, but if any one of the major Bureau of Sugar Experiment Stations for so sugar-producing countries comes up with some­ many years, Mr. Norman Joseph Ki~g, for thing like 20,000,000 tons of beet, the position his wonderful work, and the fine contnbutwn could change overnight and instead of it being that he made to the sugar industry. I was a seller's market it would be a buyer's associated with that industry for some 81 market. I pray that this will not happen. years as assistant secretary and industrial Mr. Miller: Are you concerned about ofllcer with the Ayr District Cane Growers' revaluation of the dollar? Executive, but I had certainly heard of Mr. King long before I took up that position. Mr. BLAKE: I cannot say that I am In all the time that I knew him and was content about revaluation as it affects any associated with his work, I never heard any exporting industry. I do not hesitate to say, criticism of him or his efforts to assist the as has been said by the Prime Minister, that sugar industry, or indeed of any of his any legislation that brings benefit to one officers and their work at the numerous section of the community at the expense of experiment stations. At all times I heard another deserves, and will get, recognition nothing but praise for them. ~he_ sugar from the Federal Government. I can under­ industry owes much to the dedrcat10n of stand the pessimism expressed at the effect Norman Joseph King and those officers who of revaluation on the sugar industry, but I have devoted themselves to the sugar indus­ think it should be put in its correct perspec­ try and have made it what it is today. tive. With foresight, the losses on the 1972 crop will be approximately $3,000,000. Although I have already personally con­ which represents less than 1 per cent of the gratulated Mr. Owen Sturgess on his promo­ total return from the crop. tion to the position of Director, I should like Depending on price and value in the future, to congratulate him again from the floor of between $17,000,000 and $20,000,000 could the Chamber. I have no doubt that he will be the losses on the 1973 crop. However, I carry on the good work so ably performed am quite convinced, when we are told by by Mr. King for many years. the Prime Minister and Dr. Rex Patterson. The previous speaker outlined quite well whose portfolio covers the sugar industry and the work of the Bureau of Sugar Experiment whose electorate is affected by the sugar Stations and the cane pest and disease con­ industry, that if prices decline to the stage trol boards. All who know the sugar where this industry is not viable or soundly industry will realise that the growers will based, the sugar industry of Queensland will be for ever indebted to the officers of the receive better consideration from the present bureau and those who serve on the boards Federal Government than it received from for their efforts in the breeding of canes the previous Federal Government when the and the control of diseases. I am indeed industry was down on its knees, by way of fortunate in having in my area the Lower repayable loans, firstly of $19,000,000 and Burdekin Sugar Experiment Station, which subsequently of $4,000,000. is under the capable administration of Mr. I am a sugar producer myself, and I have Claude Rehbein. I, in common with the heard an estimate of what revaluation will growers, appreciate the wonderful work done cost me. I resent that loss, too, but I by Mr. Rehbein and his officers, and those believe that those in responsible positions who were stationed there in previous years, have to take a national outlook. Where for the sugar industry not only in the Burde­ hardship cannot be shown, I will not be kin district but throughout the whole of the critical of a Government that will not give State. I believe that it is to the credit of assistance now. However, if the prosperity those men that the Lower Burdekin has of the sugar industry should deteriorate in always been-and will, I feel sure, continue the future, I will not consider the payment to be-the highest producer of cane in the of an amount equal to what producers have world, in both tonnage and sugar content. lost through revaluation as assistance to the It is a record of which the area can justly 2994 Sugar Experiment Stations [15 MARCH 1973] Act Amendment Bill be proud. But for the work of these men, equal to any in Australia. It is no mean the Burdekin area would not be producing feat for the cane-growers there to have come the crop that it is today. into the industry only a few years ago, dur­ One hears of other areas in which not only ing the last expansion, and found the secret the c.c.s. but also the tonnage of cane per of growing heavy crops of cane with very acre is much lower than it is in the Burdekin. high c.c.s. People in those areas are continually looking I believe that this area has been the for new varieties to lift their tonnage of cane saviour of the Haughton Sugar Company and tonnage of sugar per acre. The Burde­ and Invicta Mill because at the Giru end kin is very fortunate in having been kept of their cane-growing district there have well supplied with very good new varieties been very severe droughts over the past few that have enabled cane-growers to maintain years with consequent reduction in cane a wonderful record of very high tonnages crops. Thanks to the Clare, Millaroo, Dalbeg of cane and sugar per acre. and Mona Park growers, who have con­ sistently grown well in excess of their peaks, I know that the industry has already the Haughton Sugar Company and lnvicta expressed its gratitude, but on its behalf I Mill have been able to attain their peak or again thank the Government for the $100,000 go very close to it. research grant made to the Bureau of Sugar Experiment Stations. I assure the Minister When introducing the Bill the Minister for Primary Industries that the money will said that many of the matters dealt with be very well spent and will not be wasted. are primarily of an administrative or I have no doubt that any increases given to machinery nature. That is realised. It is the sugar industry in future will also be put also realised that the sugar industry has no to good use. doubt made an approach to the Minister for these variations to the Act, and the Minister As I said earlier, cane pest and disease in his wisdom has seen fit to bring down a control boards have done wonderful work. Bill to allow these alterations to be made. Again the Burdekin area is fortunate, because At no time does the sugar industry take the only problems it has had with diseases matters lightly. It always gives due and full ove: the years have been some striate mosaic, consideration to any matter before it requests a dtsease common only to the Lower Burde­ a change. That has been obvious ever since kin area, which has virtually been wiped the sugar industry came into being. out, and ratoon stunting disease, which Like the previous speaker, I wish to say caused trouble for some time. Thanks to how very pleased I am to see that provision the local research officers and to the officers is now being made for the appointment of of the cane pest and disease control boards, a bureau officer as an additional member of these diseases have virtually been eliminated from the district. the cane pest and disease control board. I would go so far as to say that the boards To give the Committee some idea of what in the past have always invited an officer could happen to the sugar industry if the from the local sugar experiment station to services of these officers were not available, come along to their meetings. I do not I should like to instance what took place know whether that has been permitted before the granting of cane assignments in officially or whether it was done because the the Clare, Millaroo and Dalbeg areas. Fol­ advice of the officer was valued. But it is very lowing the failure of the tobacco-growing pleasing to note that one representative on industry, the landowners in these areas had the cane pest and disease control board will a fair idea that they would be granted cane now be a bureau officer. assignments. Rather than wait until the As to the updating of the title of Assistant decision had been made known officially, Director to Deputy Director, that is purely a many of the landowners went to the Burde­ machinery matter. I cannot see how the kin area and obtained cane for planting. alteration of the title is going to make very They planted it so that they would have much difference. However, these gentlemen plenty of additional planting material for know what they want and, if they feel the the whole of their assigned areas when they alteration is going to assist them in any were given assignments. way, I certainly would go along with it. They were not particular where they got Through you, Mr. Dean, I should like to the cane from and, unfortunately, many of ask the Minister whether I understood him them got cane that was affected with ratoon to say that he would be making provision stunting disease. Consequently, when the for the cane pest and disease control boards industry was established in the Burdekin to destroy cane on unassigned land. irrigation area, as it is called, in no time the Mr. SuUivan: Yes. cane crops were riddled with ratoon stunting disease. However, thanks to the very good Mr. BIRD: This is a very wise move, one work of the officers of the bureau and Mr. that has been sought for a very long time Arnold Johnson of the Invicta Cane Pest by the sugar industry. We know that cane and Disease Control Board, the disease has pest and disease control boards already have been well and truly checked. In fact, I say the right to enter upon assigned land and without fear of contradiction that the Burde­ destroy any cane that may be carrying kin irrigation area now grows crops of cane disease, but never in the past have they had Sugar Experiment Stations [15 MARCH 1973Jij Act Amendment Bill 2995 the power to enter upon unassigned land and Mr. BIRD: I do not think that is provided destroy cane thereon that was carrying for in this Bill. It may come up at some disease. In the past, because of the realign­ other time. ment of main roads and for other reasons, An increase in the levy, naturally, would cane assignments have been transferred and not be a popular move, and it does not the land has been abandoned, but the cane follow that the introduction of this Bill will that had been growing on that land was not mean an automatic increase in the levy completely destroyed. It continued to grow paid by cane-growers to cane pest and disease in a wild state until such time as bush fires control boards and the Bureau of Sugar or something else eventually destroyed it. Experiment Stations, but we must all appreci­ In that period the cane could carry very severe ate that wages and other costs are rising and diseases which could ruin the sugar industry. I am sure that industry members have the As I said, it is pleasing to know that now, intelligence to understand that it may be when this Bill receives Royal assent, cane essential at some time in the future to pest and disease control boards will have raise the levy above 5 cents per ton of power to enter onto unassigned land where cane. The Bill makes provision for this cane has been growing-what we call contingency. I commend the Minister on "abandoned" land-and destroy the cane its introduction, and I look forward to growing thereon. speaking again to the Bill at the second­ If it were not for the work of the bureau reading stage. and the cane pest and disease control boards in watching for these diseases and eradicating Mr. F. P. MOORE (Mourilyan) (8.5 p.m.): them, the sugar industry would not be the Today we have seen a filibuster by the efficient industry it is today. This, of course, Government. It introduced the first two is mainly because of their ability to stop measures that appear on today's Business the introduction of strange cane from other Paper, and then, because the Minister for States. This cane might carry exotic Justice wanted to take a trip down town, diseases that could wipe out our industry postponed items 3 and 4. Next the Premier in a very short time. introduced the Regional Planning Bill. Then Although the boards have had power in because the Minister for Lands went on an the past to prevent canes being brought in interstate trip without informing the Govern­ from New South Wales and other States, ment that he would be going the burden was it is interesting to note that we are now thrown onto the Minister for Primary Indus­ giving them the power to stop the intro­ tries to introduce his Bill. duction of cane from the Northern Territory. Mr. Sullivan: You can always be depended I do not know whether there is any parti­ upon. What about talking about the Bill cular reason for this. Perhaps it may be because cane was taken over to the Ord before us? River area some years ago and grown on Mr. F. P. MOORE: I will get on with the an experimental basis. It may have spread Bill. and, while growing in a wild state, been brought back to the Northern Territory. The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honourable Such cane could be carrying disease. I member will get on with the Bill right now. do not know the reason, but it is pleasing to know that we have closed another door Mr. F. P. MOORE: The Premier has through which disease in cane could be attacked the chairman of my committee, and brought back into the sugar industry and I am entitled to reply to him. I might say be the ruination of it. It could cause that in the North I met a Norwegian who said hardship such as that experienced in the that Mr. Bjelke-Petersen was appropriately Bundaberg district through the outbreak of named. Fiji disease. I notice that in that area only a short The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honourable while ago provision was made for the member will debate the matter before the setting up of three cane pest and disease Committee, otherwise he will resume his control boards instead of the usual one. seat. [ wholeheartedly concur in this. There are three cane pest and disease control Mr. F. P. MOORE: I shall get on with it, boards in my area in the Lower Burdekin, Mr. Lickiss. Anyway the English translation and I believe that the officers of each of of "Bjelke" is, "log of wood". those is kept fully occupied. In the Bunda­ The Minister referred to fertiliser. I admire berg district it must be a gigantic task at the bureau for the work that it is doing with the best of times for one board to administer different varieties of fertiliser. However, the whole of that area and keep it disease­ whenever the bureau advises the industry that free. The people of Bundaberg, in their certain fertilisers should be used, they sud­ wisdom, recommended the setting up of two denly become unavailable in certain parts of further boards. North Queensland. I have asked the Premier Mr. Jensen: They want representatives on two questions about the lack of fertilisers the Cane Growers' Council but the Minister that are recommended by the bureau, and the will not allow it. Premier adopted stalling tactics and attempted 2996 Sugar Experiment Stations [15 MARCH !973] Act Arnendment Bill to favour the companies that produce the Bundaberg growers are in a serious plight. fertiliser. Recently the honourable member l will not refer to alJ the varieties because, for Burdekin bought into the matter and no doubt, the honourable member for Bunda­ asked exactly the same question as those berg will wish to deal with them. There has that I asked and to him the Premier gave been laxity somewhere. As the disease quite a lengthy answer. appeared in the 1940's, there was another outbreak in 1969 and the disease is still It is up to the Government to advise com­ in evidence in 1973, God help us! What is panies to have available large stocks of the being done to arrest it? I should like the fertilisers that are recommended by the Minister to give a detailed explanation. bureau. Over the past two cane seasons, in spite of the fact that the farmers were advised I should like to know whether Mr. Chur~h­ to use sulphate of ammonia, certain com­ ward's estimate of $100,000 for inspections panies in North Queensland have tried to was correct. If it was correct, there is pass off onto the growers quantities of some little to be said for the contribution of other nitrogenous fertilser. $100.000 by this Government: it always pats itself on the back after the payment of The Minister has said that the bureau has such miserly amounts. When we consider a keen interest in all cane diseases. I con­ the contribution made by the Federal Gov­ cede that it is doing great work in certain ernment in all fields, we realise that people areas but I feel that its experiments with in the western, northern and metropolitan Fiji disease are not sufficient. I am reliably areas can do nothing but sing its praise. advised that the disease first appeared in the 1940's. On 10 March 1971 this article The Minister's department, through the appeared in "The Courier-Mail" under the various experiment stations, should be trying headline, "Concern over Cane Disease"- to find alternative crops. The Queensland Labor Party decided to send its lands and "A major outbreak of Fiji disease is primary industries committee on a tour of being fought in cane crops around Bunda­ the West. We found various beans-the berg. soya bean in particular-that could be grown "The growers' representative on the as alternative crops up to the Bundaberg area, Sugar Experiment Stations Board (Mr. It is high time that investigations were made E. C. Row) ... " into areas further norih. I know that the Minister intends to introduce a Bill to He is now the honourable member for stabilise the rice industry. That is an alterna­ Hinchinbrook. tive crop introduced to the Burdekin area. " ... said that more than 120 farms had and I am not opposed to the introduction of been found affected so far." any new primary industry to any area. Wit·h But one year and eight months later, on Great Britain now involved in the European 12 November 1972, a headline read, "Close Economic Community, and the projected Look for Disease in Cane". The article problems of the sugar industry, we should 'aid, in part- be looking for alternative crops. "Bundaberg sugar industry leaders are I have attended some very informative organising a row by row search of cane field days organised by the Bureau of Sugar plants that will cover almost 100,000 acres Experiment Stations. T always found Mr. in a bid to outline the full spread of Fiji King to be very cordial and, although I have disease." not met Mr. Sturgess. T am sure that he is very competent. While I am on this article I think I should read what is attributed to Mr. Churchward. An investigation should be made into a Queensland cane-grower, in these terms- sugar by-products, particularly molasses. Pilot farms in the Northern Territory pay "Mr. Churchward yesterday estimated more on the overseas market for a 44-gallon that wages for the Bundaberg district paid drum of molasses than we receive for one to men to inspect cane would total about ton of molasses on the Californian market. $100,000 for the year." This must be looked into. I realise that sales The speaker who has just resumed his seat are not one of the functions of the bureau, praised the Government for its supposedly but they come within this Minister's portfolio. generous grant of $100,000 to the sugar The Minister said that the bureau would experiment stations, but Mr. Churchward's be given a grant of $100,000 and that it is estimate was that in the Bundaberg district proposed to increase the levy if necessary. wages alone to inspect cane for the disease, not eradicate it, would amount to $100,000. ::VIr. Su!livan: There is provision for it. Concern was still being felt on 12 November 1972 about this disease that first appeared in Mr.. F. P. MOORE: Will ever; farmer in the 1940's. I know that experimental work Queensland have to pay the lc\'y, or only in trying to control it must be extensive tho-.e in a certain area'? and intricate, but what has the Government been doing to this stage? I believe that Mr. Sulliv.an: This '' ould be determined this measure is designed to cover up laxity by the board from t:rne to time as the in arresting the spread of this disease. The necessity arises. Sugar Experiment Stations [15 MARCH 1973) Act Amendment Bill 2997

Mr. F. P. MOORE: I IYould say that, as research complex in later years, and I must the sugar industry is so well organised, cane acknowledge the contribution made by these farmers always like to help each other, but joint efforts to the promotion of this industry. 1 do not know that those in the Far North would like to be levied any substantial It v,as in 1951 that the Bureau of Sugar amount to assist southern farmers. I imagine Experiment Stations was separated from the that common sense would prevail in striking Department of Primary Industries, of which a levy. until then it was a branch. No doubt because of the high degree of organisation Mr. Sullivan: You were talking about within the sugar industry, and its standard diversification of the industry and suggested of integrity, the Government of the day soya beans as an alternative crop. Don't had no hesitation in agreeing to the bureau's you think that, in the Federal sphere, sugar becoming a separate entity and standing on would have been better put in the portfolio its own feet. The wisdom of that decision of the Minister for Primary Industry? What has certainly been proved in recent years. are your thoughts in relation to that? Or An amendment of the Act was introduced do you think that Dr. Patterson would have to constitute the bureau in its own right, been better as Minister for Primary Industry? and since that time, apart from amendments and changes in schedules, there have been Mr. F. P. MOORE: l do not know if only a couple of minor amendments. The you-- bureau is constituted to represent the Gov­ ernment. th~ cane-growers, and the raw­ The CHAIRMAN: I hope that the conver­ sugar millers. l think I can justifiably sation will cease and that the honourable say that no other technical organisation member will continue with his speech and has contributed more to the rural develop­ address the Chair. ment of Queensland, and, of course, to the Mr. F. P. l'

as undesirable harbours for diseases and that my understanding of it is that these pests. Power to deal directly and quickly days-and this applies particularly to the with this situation will now be vested in situation in Bundaberg, which I will have the proper authority, and there will no something to say about later---'it may be longer be any danger of conflict with local necessary for the pest boards in their local authorities and the Main Roads Department, circumstances to increase levies above what which in some instances tended to make it is normally required by most other units difficult to deal with the problem expedi­ of the industry that are not having as great tiously. a problem as is the case with Fiji disease. The entry of sugar cane into Queensland The main purpose of the legislation is not, as from other States and from the Northern the honourable member seems to think, to Territory was mentioned, I think by the allow the bureau's industry levy to be raised honourable member for Burdekin. The above Se, but to allow pest boards, where importance of this is emphasised, no doubt, they require to do so, to seek a levy above by the incidence of Fiji disease in Queens­ Se in order to expedite domestic controls in land. As honourable members are aware, their own districts. the disease does occur in New South Wales, During the Minister's speech the honour­ and it is just as well to have a tight rein able member for Bundaberg interjected and on the movements of cane that could create said that Fiji disease was getting away in an undesirable situation. Bundaberg. His remark was rather an I point out that there are no fewer than indictment of the sugar industry, its organisa­ 1S quarantine zones in the sugar industry, tion and its integrity. and I suggest that they have played a very important part in the control of hygiene Mr. Jensen: I will say it again. in the industry since they were established. The principle of having quarantine zones Mr. ROW: The honourable member can has certainly set a fine example for control repeat it for emphasis if he likes. However, of this kind in an industry that is susceptible but for the vast technical resources of the to plant disease and to the transmission of industry and the prompt organisation that diseases physically by diseased material being was thrown into the attack, the disease moved about in an area such as the coastal would probably have swept throughout the strip in Queensland. industry in both Queensland and New South Wales. We are very fortunate that the sugar The constitution of the cane pest and industry had the ability to contain the disease disease control boards is something with in the areas where it had been present for which I heartily agree. This was something so many years. In some areas it has been that I advocated early after my accession present in some form or other for decades. to office on the Sugar Experiment Stations Board. I am pleased to see that, since my Fiji disease was of no commercial sig­ retirement from the board, the matter has nificance to Bundaberg for very many years, been put in hand and has been agreed to but it must have been somewhere in the unanimously by the sugar industry organisa­ area in a host plant or in a dormant situa­ tions. tion, and under given circumstances it mani­ There was a period when local communi­ fested itself in such proportions that it became ties of interest probably caused the pest a serious threat to the industry in that boards to think that to some extent they district. I might add that in New &mth might have been imposed upon by the Wales this disease has persisted for a far bureaucratic aspect of having on the boards longer period, despite the sterling efforts of technical men who might receive directions the authorities in that State, who are no from a higher authority. But that was not less equipped than those in Queensland to the case at all. The fact is that the great deal with such matters. Despite this, how­ technical advances that have been made ever, the disease is common in certain areas. through the activities of the Bureau of Sugar As far as its effect in Bundaberg is con­ Experiment Stations need to be applied in cerned, whilst its appearance and extent are the field at pest-board level. In their applica­ alarming, the production of the Bundaberg tion it is desirable that there be no great area has nevertheless been maintained at a discrepancies between the practices in the level in excess of the mill peaks in the various areas. There is a need for uni­ area. fication and adequate and quick assessment I think I can justifiably say that any of practices. The value of this assessment loss of production has only been in the to the central organisation is greatly enhanced area that is referred to in the sugar industry by having technical officers with common as "second pool" production, which to some training on the boards. A uniform response extent has always been a risky area of will certainly greatly augment the efficacy production. While not trying to justify the of the bureau at the level of pest boards, tolerating of this disease, I would say that which come under the same Act as the when we are considering the effect we must bureau. take the realistic view that it has not deprived As to the levy rate. I should like to Bundaberg of its statutory quota of produc­ explain, particularly for the enlightenment tion. I think this is something to be of the honourable member for Mourilyan, thankful for. Sugar Experiment Stations (J 5 MARCH 1973] Act Amendment Bill 2999

Another matter to which I should like by organisations such as the bureau, are very to refer is the farm-management programme dedicated officers who are fully aware of -a computer programme-which the Bureau their responsibilities. of Sugar Experiment Stations several years ago undertook to initiate and present to I suppose that we could dismiss this the industry as a service available to growers. measure lightly and say that we will read In the face of great doubt in some quarters the Bill when it is printed and then put about the value of a highly sophisticated forward certain suggestions as to the various computerised farm-management system, the clauses. However, it warrants more than a bureau, in its wisdom, went ahead and passing interest. The bureau represents in fact attracted a grant from the Federal something that the general public do not Government and produced a computer realise, namely, legislative control within an formula which today is available to those industry. I suppose it can be claimed that people who are prepared to avail them­ since the introduction of the Sugar Acquisi­ selves of it. It is equal to any modern tion Act of 1915 there has been legislative management formula to be found anywhere control. It could also be claimed that the in the world. Indeed, I believe that many sugar industry is a socialised industry, and people in Australia in other less fortunate I realise that such an assertion would not industries than the sugar industry have for receive the Government's approbation because many years been paying hard cash for such it has denied this fact for so long. Never­ a service. Through the bureau, the sugar theless, the bureau is under legislative con­ industry has provided this service to its trol. It is of great significance that members growers in the normal course of events. of Parliament can express their thoughts on I think this should be noted and remembered this measure, because our decisions may as a tribute to the bureau. I must say have either a beneficial or detrimental effect that the present Director (Mr. Sturgess) was on the industry. one of those who fought for and had great faith in this programme. I pay a tribute Certain cane diseases have been referred to him for his tenacity in the face of very to. We may say that it is the business of difficult circumstances in carrying this pro­ the man in the field or the laboratory gramme through to a conclusion that is assistant to detect and counter these diseases, a credit to the bureau. but we must not forget that they are not solely the concern of the countless people Reference has been made by the honour­ who earn their living in the sugar industry. able member for Isis to sugar marketing When disease strikes a crop, the husbandry arrangements. This is a very delicate of the affected property or properties is matter that requires a great deal of skill­ disorganised. This is costly to the farmers skill of almost diplomatic standard. It must in time and money. be remembered that many of the sugar indus­ try's contractual arrangements are handled The honourable member for Mourilyan on the basis of private treaties carried out asked a question about the levy, which was by the marketing agents for the Queensland also referred to by a Government member. Sugar Board. Any such levy falls back on the primary producer. Not only does he lose a crop (Time expired.) and suffer the inconvenience of reorganising his property to help eradicate the disease, Mr. O'DONNELL (Belyando) (8.35 p.m.): but he also pays the levy. Certain people I do not think that anybody could have do not accept legislative control of industry. mistaken my attitude to primary industries However, over the years, the man on the since I have been in this Parliament. Their land who has felt the hardships caused by importance to Australia and Queensland in various acts of nature and the onset of particular should never be underestimated; disease has generally accepted that, to help indeed, it should be stressed whenever a himself, he has to pay. It is quite obvious Bill such as this comes before the Com­ to me that there is a great deal of merit mittee. As I travel around the State I in sensible legislative control. It is important realise that its development stems from the to realise this, because certain individuals land. Our primary industries have set a react against compulsory controls. very fine example of efficiency, and the sugar industry is no exception. It is second to We have had a great deal of trouble in none in Australia, or, for that matter, the various primary industries in establishing world. statutory bodies which eventually, with vary­ ing degrees of success, have been able to The Bureau of Sugar Experiment Stations lead their industries into a better situation. has existed in one form or another for 73 A clause of this Bill will permit higher years. It was established as a branch of the levies to be placed-! will not say imposed then Department of Agriculture and Stock; -on this industry to cope with the difficul­ today it enjoys autonomy. It can be proud ties faced by it. Whether or not the man of the marvellous contributions it has made in the field is critical of it, it is well to to the sugar industry. The staff of the know that, before the legislation was intro­ Primary Industries Department, whether in duced, the industry was consulted about the the office or the field, and those employed provision and accepted it. 3000 Sugar Experiment Stations [15 MARCH 1973] Act Amendment Bill

But for my knowledge of the sugar indus­ number of migrants, who built up our try and other primary industries, I would population, and has given us a great deal have been concerned about two elements of of pride and satisfaction. the Minister's speech tonight. The first was When the Bill is printed we will examine his outstanding statement that only now it, but on the basis of what the Minister has in the long history of this industry and its said tonight I think I can agree with the growth and development have we awakened shadow Minister for Primary Industries (Mr. to the fact that sugar cane can be imported Blake) that there does not seem to be any­ from the Northern Territory and so introduce thing very controversial in what has been disease in our canefields. Sometimes when put forward. I sit here and hear such statements I feel that there must be shortcomings in the Mr. WHARTON (Burnett) (8.56 p.m.): 1 preparation of Bills brought before us. It rise to support the Bill. It is timely and is a self-evident fact that any part of our opportune and in the interests of the sugar boundary, whether it be the eastern seaboard, industry. the Northern Territory border, the South Australian border or the New South Wales Mr. Bromley: If I had my way, you border, can be crossed by somebody bringing wouldn't be speaking at all tonight after in a product that could be a host to some what you did to me. disease that could later work to our dis­ advantage. The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. W. D. Hewitt): Order! The honourable mem­ The other point which concerns me is ber for Burnett will speak, and he will have this: we have been very proud of our the protection of the Chair. primary industries and our various extension services in various fields. Yet tonight is the Mr. WHARTON: I remind the honourable first time that legislation has been introduced member for South Brisbane that I was on the to ensure that areas outside the prescribed list of speakers and I propose to take areas are to be kept clear of cane. This advantage of it. has taken a long time. Please do not mistake The Minister has enunciated the various what I am saying. I am not attacking provisions of the Bill, and two points concern individuals in any way. But humans have me greatly. One is the provision that weaknesses and they are as plain as the empowers the Sugar Experiment Stations nose on the face of anybody sitting here. Board to hold land in trust for cane pest and disease control boards as such boards are It has happened repeatedly over the years not legal entities. The other point is the that an Act has been amended to fill a tiny extension of power to the Governor in gap which nobody thought of. This is very Council to prohibit the entry of sugar cane significant, because the Queensland boundary to Queensland from other States and the is very extensive. We have, on earlier Northern Territory. These matters are vital occasions, discussed the danger of the intro­ to my electorate, and I wish to touch on duction of foot-and-mouth disease, and the easy access there is to this State. Yet tonight them to some degree. y.,e have to legislate to overcome a similar The honourable member for Belyando had problem. Many Bills introduced in this House a great deal to say about the importation of should have a common safeguarding section. ,ugar cane from other States. He usually advances fairly responsible arguments in this Queensland and Australia owe the sugar Chamber, and I commend him for much of industry a good deal. The whole of Queens­ his speech this evening. However, he also land's east coast has been opened up by it­ went on to say what wonderful things the decentralised if you like-and many villages, Labor Government had done for the sugar towns and cities between Brisbane and Cairns industry, and criticised this Government ~or owe their origin to a Labor Government. as the legislation that it has introduced covenng the honourable member for Mourilyan said, this industry. He told the Committee how and also to other people who played their long Labor Governments were in office. I part when Labor Governments were not in do not know of anything that the Labor power. We can boast about the achievements Party did for cane-growers. The present of Labor Governments because Labor was Government is the one that has been close in power for so many years. No historian to the farmers who, with the millers, are the would point the finger of scorn at those ones who are all-important in the industry. achievements. Nobody who knows anything This Government has shown that it can do of the sugar industry in this State would more for the sugar industry than any other deny that the industry received tremendous political party. benefits from various Labor Governments, perhaps when times were far tougher than An Opposition Member: Since when? they are now, even though today we are faced with Britain's entry into the E.E.C., Mr. WHARTON: Always. Honourable which could affect our agreements in that members opposite put all their faith in Mr. part of the world. Our history is full of the Whitlam. Dr. Patterson would be a much hardships, trials and tribulations suffered by better Federal Minister for Primary Industry the pioneers of the sugar industry. It has than Senator Wriedt. Why don't honourable been responsible for the infusion of a large members opposite say these things? Instead, Sugar Experiment Stations [15 MARCH 1973] Act Amendment Bill 3001

they seem to place all their faith in what in which hundreds of millions of dollars are Mr. Whitlam says. All that he is concerned invested in farms and homes, as well as in about are the apple and pear industries; the other industries. others can fall by the wayside. But why Opposition Members interjected. should any industry fall by the wayside? At least assistance should be given to any Mr. WHARTON: This is only common industry that finds itself in difficulties. sense. If honourable members opposite do The sugar industry is particularly con­ not know anything about it, I cannot help cerned with Fiji disease, and a Bureau of them. Sugar Experiment Stations report contains Mr. Marginson: You should have listened this passage- to the speech by the honourable member for "The fight against the spread of Fiji Bundaberg. disease in the Bundaberg area was intensi­ fied with research into the ecology of the Mr. WHARTON: I am not worried about leaf-hopper responsible for its transmission, the honourable member for Bundaberg. If and the screening of varieties for disease it was not for the Burnett district, there resistance. For many years it was con­ would not be any Bundaberg. The district sidered that populations of the leaf- hopper that I represent makes a notable contribu­ tion to the great city of Bundaberg, of which were kept in check by its predators and I am very proud. I will do all I can to parasites naturally present in Queensland make it an even better city. The honourable cane fields; part of the ecological study is member for Bundaberg knows that what I being directed towards an understanding of am saying is correct. The sugar industry in why the number of leaf-hoppers has the Burnett area is very important to Bun­ increased manyfold in recent years. daberg. "Testing for varietal resistance to Fiji disease in field trials was extended and Much has been said about what has been screening tests in the glasshouse were also done by various sections of the industry, but commenced. The erection of extensive glass­ there is no question that cane farmers have house facilities at Bundaberg and Brisbane done a great deal for themselves. The cane­ has been approved, and when completed by growers' executive in the Bundaberg area mid-1973 should enable the screening of wants to grow cane plants in order to meet varieties to be expanded about five times." the problem of Fiji disease. This is the general pattern of work of the The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. Bureau of Sugar Experiment Stations on W. D. Hewitt): Order! There is too much which I wish to comment. The station at audible conversation in the Chamber. 8undaberg is playing a very important role in this work. Mr. WHARTON: Honourable members opposite do not like listening to what I am ! remind the honourable member for saying, Mr. Hewitt. I thank you for your Belyando that it is the policy of the Queens­ words of wisdom to them. land Cane Growers' Association that the harvesting of the crop should remain With the co-operation of the Department under the control of cane-growers and that of Lands, an area of land has been secured this role should not be relinquished lightly. at Mahogany Creek on which to grow cane Cane-growers are proud of the part their plants under irrigation for three years, thus organisation has played in running its own providing clean plants for the industry. The affairs, and this is an exercise in which the Fairymead area intends to harvest 12,000 Government helps those who look after them­ tons of cane plants in the Baffie Creek area. 'elves. The pest control board in Bundaberg has attempted to do all it can to assist these :VIr. Bromley interjected. projects, and Mr. Ben Anderson and Mr. Dick Churchward have done a wonderful Mr. WHARTON: I cannot hear what the job. The industry must have clean plants, honourable member for South Brisbane is and the Government has introduced this saying. As a Government, we are assisting Bill to do what it can to assist. It provides people who wish to help themselves. That direct assistance to men who are under has been the attitude of the sugar industry heavy pressure but who wish to continue in from time immemorial, and this is an exer­ the industry. cise to help the industry. In ''Sunday Sun" about six months ago, It is proposed to transfer to the Bureau much was said about the wonderful sugar of Sugar Experiment Stations authority to industry. Although Fiji disease is a problem, hold in trust areas of land so that the indus­ production will not be reduced to any extent. try will have sufficient cane land for the However, we do not wish to see the industry future. Consider, for instance, the present wiped out, and the measures being taken in position in the Bumett area. There is the this instance indicate that the Government city of Bundaberg and many townships in is keen to assist it. This Government's surrounding areas in which thousands of attitude is in sharp contrast to the whims people depend on the sugar industry for of Whitlam, who has sliced $14,000,000 off their livelihood. It is a sugar·growing area the sugar industry. Why should that happen 3002 Sugar Experiment Stations (15 MARCH 1973] Act Amendment Bill to any industry? By a stroke of the pen in they will not have full employment. Such Canberra, the sugar industry loses $14,000,000 a policy will kill the goose that lays the simply because it is reasonably profitable at golden egg. the moment. Farmers make a real contribution in the Mr. P. Wood: It wasn't $14,000,000 for a type of exercise we are talking about tonight. start. They have to suffer the penalty of paying a levy. They have to remove defective cane Mr. WHARTON: The honourable mem­ plants. I know one farmer who lost his ber said "for a start". I will pay that one. entire crop. I am trying to emphasise the Goodness only knows what it will be in the contribution that the farmers make in the future! We have already had that amount control of disease, particularly Fiji disease. taken from us. We are not promised any assistance at all. Even Dr. Patterson said Opposition Members interjected. he was worried about the small grower. He The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: Order' did nothing about revaluation. The small The inane interjections will cease. grower is the one who will "cop it in the neck" first. Mr. WHARTON: As I said, the farmer himself makes a real contribution to this Mr. Hanson interjected. exercise because he not only pays a levy but in many cases he also has to make Mr. WHARTON: There was no misrepre­ a real effort to do so. However, he knows sentation. The honourable member for Port that if his cane plants are not clean his Curtis is the one who could not read. He crop is not secure. The problem is a may know something about the port of seasonal one, but it is of very great import­ Gladstone, but very little about the sugar ance to the area I represent. That is industry. why I am so concerned about it, and l We are trying to help an industry that compliment the Minister on introducing deserves help. Everybody on this side knows legislation such as this. the fluctuations of the sugar industry. It has The Bill contains quite a number of points been rich, and it has been poor. I will con­ that the Minister and other honourable mem­ cede that it is in fairly reasonable shape at bers have dealt with very fully. I need the moment. Three or four years ago it was not deal with them all, although I have in the doldrums. Down through the years dealt with the matters that affect the Bunda­ it has experienced highs and lows. Why berg area particularly. should the cash return to the sugar industry be altered by a stroke of the pen in Canberra? The Bill is a good and sound one. It I ask the same question about any other gives legal power to boards to undertake primary industry. duties that they could not previously per­ form. This is very important for the sugar Mr. Sherrington interjected. industry, as anything that concerns the Burnett and Bundaberg areas concerns The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. Queensland and Australia as a whole. There­ W. D. Hewitt): Order! The honourable fore, speaking on behalf of the growers in member for Salisbury should not tempt the my area, I express appreciation for this Chair. legislation and compliment the Minister on introducing it. Mr. WHARTON: The sugar industry deserves every assistance it can get. Inflation­ Mr. CASEY (Mackay) (9.12 p.m.): In ary costs affect the sugar producer. I repeat, speaking to the introduction of this Bill, why should the sugar industry or any other I take the opportunity to congratulate Mr. primary industry be penalised by a stroke Sturgess and Mr. Leverington on being of the pen in Canberra? appointed respectively to the positions of Director and Deputy Director of the Bureau Mr. P. Wood: You never support the city of Sugar Experiment Stations of Queensland. worker. I regard these two officers as the epitome Mr. WHARTON: I have no qualms about of what has been happening in the sugar helping the city man to get a reasonable industry over the years, thanks to legisla­ wage and enjoy reasonable hours. The hon­ tion introduced many years ago-prior to the time of this Government, of course­ ourable member has never heard me say under which the sugar industry was given the otherwise. I will not go along with the opportunity of stabilising itself, of setting ridiculous attitudes of the A.L.P. Government itself up properly and in an efficient manner in Canberra, which are penalising us. What and, what is more, of having its own has been done is to the detriment of not only representatives on bodies at all levels. the farmers but also the millers and those who work in the mills. If we are to price The Bureau of Sugar Experiment Stations ourselves out of the industry, we cannot is one such level. This stems from the have full employment. We all want full fact that the far-seeing men in the industry employment, particularly honourable mem­ realised that they needed fully-trained men bers on this side. If honourable members within the industry. It has been because opposite support A.L.P. policy on this matter, of this training, foresight and constant Sugar Experiment Stations [15 MARCH 1973] Act Amendment Bill 3003 research that the sugar industry in Queens­ each mill area with a representative on the land has produced men of the calibre we boards. What remarkable inconsistency on now see occupying these positions. In fact, the part of the Minister! As recently as the industry has also produced such tech­ last week I asked him a question that related nologists as Mr. Jensen, the honourable to representation on the Queensland Cane member for Bundaberg, who was one of Growers' Council. The present representa­ the top technologists in the industry prior tion is out of all proportion. Very strong to entering this Parliament. protests have been made to the Government One of the points made by the Minister about the representation, and demands have in introducing the Bill was that one of been made for the complete restructuring of the prime areas affected by diseases in the council to ensure that each mill area the sugar industry in recent years is the will be represented thereon. What was the Mackay district, which has been plagued Minister's answer to my question? He by the problem of leaf scald. This is replied- a very serious problem, which first broke "! have carefully considered the views out in The Cedars area in 1960. It of those seeking the change and I have was thought that it had been contained come to the firm conclusion that the but suddenly, in 1972, it broke out in the present membership of the council repre­ best cane-growing areas in the district­ sents as nearly as possible an equitable Pleystowe, Racecourse and some of the representation of grower interests." oldest cane-growing areas-and spread like Last week the Minister was prepared to say wildfire, to such an extent that the Bureau that seven mills should have 41 per cent of of Sugar Experiment Stations has taken the representation on the council, whereas the extraordinary step of trying to com­ the other 19 mills should have only 59 per pletely eradicate from the area the cane cent. I point out that the seven mills to variety Q.63, which is particularly sus­ which I have referred pay only 27 per cent ceptible to this disease. of the total levy on mill-peak tonnages. The One very interesting point in the Minister's people who pay the 73 per cent have far address was his stated intention in the Bill less representation proportionately on the to do something further about delegating council. Last week the Minister said that his ministerial powers under the Act. I was fair and equitable, but this evening he welcome this, but I hope it goes far enough. told us that there must be one representa­ The Minister will recall that last year in tive from each mill-supplying area on the this Chamber I referred to the severe prob­ cane pest and disease control boards. It is lem caused in the Mackay region by wallabies all very well for the honourable member for eating young cane. I referred to the fact Hinchinbrook to talk. He has three mill that an officer of the Bureau of Sugar Experi­ areas in his district, each of which has a ment Stations was required to inspect the representative on the Queensland Cane affected cane fields and to confirm that the Growers' Council. The growers in the animals were wallabies and that they were Cairns, Burdekin, Mackay and Bundaberg eating the cane. The Act forbade him from areas have been penalised by the Govern­ taking the cane farmer's word. Upon the ment through inadequate representation on completion of his inspection, the officer had the Queensland Cane Growers' Council, not to ask the farmer to fill in a form so that the growers from the C.S.R.-dominated Her­ it could be sent to Brisbane to obtain the bert River area represented by the honour­ Minister's permission to allow the farmer able member. to shoot the wallabies. What a ridiculous The co-operative-mill areas in the Mackay situation! Of course, by the time permission was granted the wallabies had hopped off district are penalised more heavily than any into the next paddock, and because it was other mill area. I agree with the honourable a different assigned area the whole procedure member for Burdekin that, per ton per acre, had to be gone through again. Fortunately, the Burdekin growers grow better cane than after a while the system was short-circuited any growers elsewhere in the world. But, and the officer telephoned Brisbane direct. because their costs of production are much The Minister was prepared to have certain higher, they do not grow it as efficiently as discussions with his Director to see what the growers in the Mackay district. Last could be done. year's figures clearly showed that, by a natural process, we have a far better c.c.s. If all the officers of the Bureau of Sugar than they do. Nevertheless, these two major Experiment Stations are of the calibre of canegrowing areas in Queensland are inade­ Mr. Col Story, who is the administration quately represented on the Queensland Cane officer at the Mackay station-and I believe they are-they are capable of determining Growers' Council. whether or not wallabies are a pest. With I place the ball squarely at the Minister's due respect to the Minister, I suggest that feet and say that he is being directed and they possess far wider knowledge than he guided irresponsibily on this matter-against does of conditions in the field. I am sure the wishes of those in the sugar industry. the Minister would agree with this. This evening he tried to tell us that he is The Minister said he wanted to ensure acting responsibly in the interests of sugar­ that the cane pest and disease control boards growers in getting one representative at least are restructured in certain areas to provide from each mill area on cane pest and disease 3004 Sugar Experimem Stations [15 MARCH 1973] Act Amendment Bill

control boards. This is gross inconsistency Unless this industry is properly protected on his part; he had better sack and scatter and looked after by our State negotiators, his advisers who are telling him what he we will be in a very sorry plight indeed. should do about representation on the I repeat that the Minister will have to go Queensland Cane Growers' Council. The further than he has gone tonight to regain cane-growers of Queensland have lost con­ the confidence of the sugar producers in fidence in him as Minister for Primary this State. They are greatly concerned about Industries. I will go even further and say their future, despite the current high prices that they are concerned because in about and the good return they are receiving for one or two months' time one of the most their efforts. important events since the Minister assumed The Premier was in the Chamber earlier his present portfolio is to occur. This will this evening. I request the Minister to ask be his most important task. He and the him, when he is tarking to Gough Whitlam Premier have been selected to represent the tomorrow week, to ensure that the Common­ Queensland sugar industry at the Geneva wealth Government gives us the money to conference to negotiate a new International implement the Eton irrigation scheme, which Sugar Agreement. Because of the Minister's would boost the sugar industry in the Mackay activities in this other matter and the prob­ district. That request was rejected by the lems associated with it, the sugar-growers of McMahon Government prior to the· las! Queensland have lost confidence in him. Federal election. If the Premier can get They are deeply concerned about the repre­ that money, he will go a long way towards sentation they will have at that conference. regaining, for both the Government and In the last few years we have seen chang­ himself, the confidenc.e of the sugar industry. ing trends in the sugar industry. Last year we sold sugar to six countries in the world Mr. NEWBERY (Mirani) (9.28 p.m.): 1 that we had not sold it to before. They support the introduction of the Bill. I con­ were Algeria, Belgium, Chile, Morocco, gratulate Mr. Owen Sturgess, the new Director Tunisia and China. And, for the first time in of the Bureau of Sugar Experiment Stations, many years, sugar was sold to Russia. and thank his predecessor, Mr. Norman King, for the wonderful job I know he has A Government Member: Who sold it? done over the many years that I have been farming. I must not Jet this opportunity Mr. CASEY: The Queensland Sugar Board pass without congratulating Mr. Col Story sold it. We sold 132,2.81 tons to Russia and and his staff on the tremendous job they 35,039 tons to China. The total of those are doing for the industry not only in the sales represents half the amount that Queens­ Mackay area but throughout the State. ] land will lose under the British Common­ feel that, as a grower, I am fully qualified wealth Sugar Agreement. As can be seen, to support the introduction of this Bill. I am we are facing a very serious problem in also qualified to sing the praises of the Queensland for sugar outlets. experiment stations because I have been Somebody asked by way of interjection, closely associated with them as a grower "Who sold it?" It was sold from Queensland, since 1938. I can assure the Committee and exported through Mackay. Chinese and that they have done a great job in assisting Russian ships were in Mackay Harbour, load­ the industry to stay afloat during good and ing sugar for those and other countries. bad times. Not one honourable member representing a They have done a grand job in establishing sugar-growing area would fail to admit that new varieties. The Mackay Experiment we had to sell to these people at the prices Station has possibly led the way in the pro­ that were operative at the particular time. duction of new cane varieties, and many The basic reason for the current high more varieties are being developed there. I sugar prices throughout the world is that for understand that as many as several thousand the third successive year it is expected that new varieties are produced each year. Of world consumption of sugar will exceed course, they do not all go out to farms. world production of sugar, and that stocks Perhaps only one of a couple of thousand of sugar will continue to fall in the coming new seedlings is proved and sent to the farms. year. So we are still in a good position I should like to mention the variety Co.290. with world prices. But the future is not That was a variety planted back in the 1930's so bright. Some of the reports from England and early 1940's. It was imported from and Europe about beet-sugar production must Coimature in India, and it did a wonderful cause concern to anybody who has anything job. In fact, it was known as a "mortgage to do with this State's major agricultural lifter". It was a wonderful cane. industry, which has decentralised the State. There is no need for me to tell anyone Government members, Opposition members, who knows anything about sugar cane what and anybody else can say what they like the grass canes have done for the sugar about what caused decentralisation in industry, especially from Mackay south. The Queensland. It was the sugar industry. Who Mackay Experiment Station produced varieties could deny that when we look at cities such as Q.50 and Q.28, which were wonder­ like Bundaberg, Mackay, Ayr, Cairns, Innis­ ful varieties and heavy producers. As the fail and Ingham? honourable member for Mackay said, Q.63 Sugar Experiment Stations [15 MARCH 1973] Act Amendment Bill 3005 would possibly be the greatest sugar­ cooked at a temperature of about 52 degrees producing cane ever developed m this Fahrenheit for three hours, and that kills country. It has a very high sugar content, the disease in the stick. You may not get and this year it has produced, in sugar a very good strike, but the main thing content for one week, a record for all mills is to get some sort of a strike so there throughout the world. lt returned an average will be cane plants for the following year. for the week of just under 18 c.c.s. I again congratulate Mr. Hughes and his However, when wonderful varieties such assistants for their good work. as that one are produced, something always Another pest that has made its appear­ goes wrong with them, and in this case it ance in the past 10 or 15 years is the was the incidence of leaf scald. This disease soldier fly. It has created havoc in the has just about killed Q.63, and I know that sugar industry, and, although it has not farmers in the Mackay area are very sorry yet been eradicated completely, I claim that to see the loss of this variety. During the the Bureau of Sugar Experiment Stations last season, which was the season with the has done a wonderful job in attempting highest sugar content in living memory, a to eradicate it. Many methods have been few farmers averaged 20 c.c.s., and four or used. For example, gammexane and five mills for weeks averaged between 17 and heptachlor was used early in the piece without 18 c.c.s. Figures such as these no doubt much result, but dieldrin has been introduced make the honourable member for Cairns more recently with success. I understand that very jealous. ploughing in after the use of a dieldrin Of course, the sugar experiment stations spray is the best method of eradication. are for ever trying to produce better varieties, It is hoped that experimentation will con­ and it is hoped that they will come up with tinue and that the soldier fly will eventually varieties particularly suitable for the North, be eradicated completely. just as they have found some particularly In my early days of farming, and even suitable for Mackay. Although Q.63 is on before that, the greyback beetle was the the way out, all is not lost for the Mackay real pest in the industry. I know instances region, and again I must sing the praises of of farms that were expected to produce the Mackay Experiment Station. Its officers good crops of 2,000, 3,000 or 4,000 tons are constantly endeavouring to produce of cane up till March, when the weather varieties that not only have high sugar con­ began to get dry, and the greyback beetle tent, but will also cut earlv. We have had affected them to such an extent that only these, too. We have N~Co which is a 500 or 800 tons of cane was cut. Gammexane wonderful producer that will cut both early was the saviour of farmers suffering from and late. The availability of these varieties these pests. is the result of work done by the sugar Then there is the Frenchi cane beetle, experiment stations. which is a smaller beetle. It is very difficult The experiment stations have a new to get out, and it lodges at the base of variety that they hope will take the place the stool. Although it has not been of Q.63. It is Q.96. They have developed eliminated completely, the Bureau of Sugar it and hope that farmers will get rid of Experiment Stations has done a wonderful Q.63 to enable the distribution of Q.96. This job and the Frenchi beetle no longer causes variety could be susceptible to leaf scald, and, trouble to any extent. once that disease sets in, it is hard to Mr. Hanson: What did they use to eradicate. Q.63 is on the way out, and I hope eliminate it? that it will not be long before Q.96 comes in. The sugar content of canes is improving every Mr. NEWBERY: Gammexane and year, and this is no doubt due to the very fine dieldrin, and other chemicals. BHC.­ breeding campaigns followed by the sugar benzene hexachloride was the real killer. experiment stations through the State. Let me digress a little and say that the In my opinion, some of the greatest work sugar industry, with the assistance of the done by the staff of the sugar experiment Bureau of Sugar Experiment Stations, has stations has been the eradication of ratoon progressed considerably during the last stunting disease. I understand that the century. I believe that the early 1950's was experimentation was carried out by Mr. the time when the Bureau of Sugar Experi­ Graham Hughes, Mr. Steindl, and other ment Stations really came to grips with staff members. The disease lodges in the the pests affecting the industry, and tre­ notch of the cane and excretes a wax mendous advances have been made since which stops the nourishment going from that time. the ground to the top and from the top to the ground. In very dry years, ratoon The work of the sugar experiment stations stunting disease has caused a decrease in over that period has increased the crop three­ production of anything from 1 ton to 25 fold to fourfold. The sugar industry has or 30 tons an acre. You can imagine, never called on the public purse for assist­ Mr. Hewitt, what the elimination of ratoon ance. It is an industry that has always stunting disease has meant to the industry. controlled itself. As well as looking after The method used is referred to as boiling. its own affairs, it has maintained stable prices. It is not really a boiling process. The cane is If the sugar industry seeks an increase in 3006 Sugar Experiment Stations [15 MARCH 1973] Act Amendment Bill

price, there can be no doubt that the need for for hilly country or, as is seen right through­ it has been thoroughly investigated. The out the State, by Main Roads resumptions industry does not ask for an increase in price leaving small areas on which old cane is other than when it is fully justified. growing. This old cane harbours and breeds disease which is carried by pests. Prices have been kept down by many methods. The mechanisation of cane farms A new experiment station has been estab­ and harvesting has been largely responsible lished at Tully in the wet belt, I understand for keeping prices down. This has all been as a result of the work of Mr. Ted Row, brought about by the ingenuity of farmers the honourable member for Hinchinbrook. themselves. We have excellent harvesting It is basically an agronomy station to study machines right throughout the State. All the the reduction in sugar content arising from machines have been invented in the back greatly reduced periods of sunlight and yards of farms. To mention a few of them, excess ground water. I understand from the Crighton machine was invented by Biii articles in the Press and the "Sugar Journal" Crighton and his family at Plane Creek that North Queensland is suffering from low Valley, and the Creeber machine was sugar content, which is possibly three or invented by the Creeber brothers at North four units below that in the Mackay region. Eton. We also have the Toft machine and No industry can stand such a loss of the Don Mizzi machine. There are two dif­ income, and it is hoped that this new ferent types of the latter. All these machines agronomy station will introduce new varieties have done a tremendous job in the sugar that will produce more sugar to the acre industry; so much so that two men today in the wet belt around Tully and Babinda. can put on the line in one day as much cane Before resuming my seat, I should like as three men would handle in 5t days 10 to mention representation on the Queensland or 20 years ago. Cane Growers' Council. For some time now There is no doubt that, but for the members representing the sugar industry­ ingenuity of the farmers and the support of such as the honourable members for Mul­ the sugar experiment stations, the price of grave, Burdekin, Burnett and myself-have sugar could never have been kept down to been pressing for some justice in respect the present level. The new fertilisers have of this particular council. At the moment, also played a tremendous part in keeping of course, there are 17 representatives on costs down. We now have the granulated the council. Seven mills have seven repre­ complete fertiliser which is very easy to sentatives and 24 mills have 10 representa­ apply. We also have aquamonia and urea. tives. In the Burdekin area four mills have Of course anyone who knows the sugar two representatives; in my area, Mackay, industry will remember the old sulphate of seven mills have three representatives; and ammonia. Fertiliser application has been in the Bundaberg area five mills have two made much easier than it was 10, 20 or 30 representatives. years ago when sulphate of ammonia was (Time expired.) tossed out of a tin. Modern fertilising machines make for much quicker application Mr. AIKEN (Warrego) (9.48 p.m.): With of fertiliser. We have experienced a great agricultural science being capable of lifting deal of trouble in obtaining deliveries of the quantity of sugar per acre, and the fertiliser at the stage in the season when engineering ability that has produced labour­ fertiliser should be applied. The Jack of saving machinery for harvesting and handling delivery has been the result of poor labour crops with the most marvellous efficiency performance in the transport and handling probably ever known in a highly proficient industries as well as strikes. industry such as the sugar industry, growers now face the problem of the transitional The reference of the honourable member arrangements that will undoubtedly follow for Belyando to the prohibition of entry the expiration in 1974 of the Commonwealth into Queensland of sugar cane from other Sugar Agreement and of finding an alterna­ States is no indication of any lack of con­ tive to the United Kingdom market. trol, but it is an emergent matter which The boost to the industry that followed relates only to new circumstances. In the the price improvement under the International past the judicious exchange of suitable Sugar Agreement and the relatively high canes from other States has greatly benefited prices of last year could well be tempered plant breeding in Queensland and has led to canes of world class. It is generally with a. heavy world-production increase, as acknowledged that the canes we are pro­ was pomted out by the honourable member ducing in Queensland are equal to or better for Mackay. With other countries well than any canes produced throughout the adapted to sugar product:on, this of course world. This, of course. is why ours is could result in a sensational fall in Queens­ the most efficient sugar industry in the world, land's sugar market. The hastening of not only in growing but also in milling. The Britain's entry into the European Common honourable member for Belyando has gone Market threw the sugar industry into con­ beyond reality to highlight this situation. siderable confusion and emphasised the importance of and need for new markets I think clause 4 is very important. It as an alternative to the British market, deals with old canes left on abandoned and will surely re.ftect seriously on the land, which is brought about by substitution industry's immediate future. Sugar Experiment Stations (15 MARCH 1973] Act Amendment Bill 3007

The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. and a peanut-grower. I well remember the W. D. Hewitt): Order! The Chairman has nasty taste that v. as left in the mouths of ruled that honourable members must not the sugar-growers after the Premier's return pass, even in a crouched position, between from the previous Geneva conference. I am the Chair and the member who is speaking. concerned at the fact that our delegates­ I ask the honourable member for Mourilyan the Premier and the Minister for Primary to remember that ruling. Industries-are not truly representative of the sugar industry. What an insult to that Mr. AIKEN: As the honourable member industry! for Mackay has said, sugar is the most valu­ I now wish to pay tribute to the Bureau able crop in tropical Queensland. It has been of Sugar Experiment Stations. It is hard to the motivating force behind northern develop­ estimate how much we owe the bureau. The ment. It has been responsible for the opening application of its soil physics and water up of virgin land and has been the procreator requirement experiments are all of tre­ of mills, towns, cities and ports. Coupled mendous importance to the growth of that with this development have been the activities giant grass known as sugar cane. The special of the sugar experiment stations. Tonight features of the bureau have always been honourable members have praised the employed in the best way to aid the sugar bureau for its ceaseless efforts in the interests industry. Although the various research of the sugar industry. The importance of the projects have undoubtedly been costly, they sugar experiment stations and their efforts have been of infinite value to the industry to introduce new cane varieties, to increase and a great credit to that monument of yield, to control diseases, to institute farm endeavour the Bureau of Sugar Experiment hygiene, and to advise on fertiliser use, can­ Stations. not be over-emphasised. One of the finest achievements of the experiment stations has The bureau can well be proud of the been the introduction of adaptable cane research undertaken into the deterioration of varieties that are capable of very high yields. chopper-harvested cane. We all know that the Although the major diseases have been small pieces cut by the harvesters and the largely eradicated, ratoon stunting and splitting of the billets obtained, have led to mosaic disease still plague the industry. serious infection problems. There has also been a general loss of sugar juice, but As another honourable member has said, undoubtedly the bureau will find a solution the sugar industry is the most efficient primary to these problems, just as it has not let us industry in Australia and ranks among the down in the past. With the possibility of the top primary industries of the world. Its pro­ manufacture of paper pulp-from cane waste, ficiency is due to many factors, not the least the research of the experiment stations is of which is the dedication of the officers of vital. If I were to applaud the Government the experiment stations. Closer settlement for anything I would applaud it because it and intensive farming methods have brought saw fit to grant the bureau an additional development and prosperity to the sugar­ $100,000 to assist in research. producing areas of Queensland. Approxi­ mately 95 per cent of the nation's sugar In the past few years there has been a output is produced north of the Tropic of considerable increase in the return to sugar Capricorn, and Mackay is the centre of the mills, with production efficiency improving world's best cane-growing area. and yield rising sharply. Through close studies, the experiment stations have con­ With the phasing out of the United tinued to contribute to the continual up­ Kingdom market, some of the stability and grading of the sugar industry. Although the excitement that have always been part of industry's marketing arrangements have the industry is beginning to seep out like always been complex to me-growers are molasses. Perhaps there is reason for con­ allotted quotas and farm peaks-the industry cern, as expressed by the honourable member has remained highly efficient and expansion­ for Mackay, for the many hundreds of small ary. There are many offshoots to the industry, cane farmers and their dependants. Because such as drugs, medicines, cordials, dyes, the industry depends to a very large extent on export sales, it can ill afford to lose the alcohol and a developing use of molasses, traditionally stable British market. It is the which ~re indeed a tribute to the experiment responsibility of this Government to rescue stations. the growers and, until markets are re-estab­ We should never forget that the sugar lished, even to the extent of subsidising them. industry undoubtedly remains a monument Surely we do not want to see a repetition to the Forgan Smith Labor Government, and in the sugar industry of the shortages and its production capabilities and efficiency have high costs that plagued the wool, meat and in no way been dimmed by the wonderful wheat industries as a result of this Govern­ efforts of the sugar experiment stations. I ment's lack of concern. pay tribute, as have most honourable mem­ I also share the concern of the honourable bers who have spoken today, to the wonderful member for Mackay, who pointed out that organisation of the bureau. the two delegates that Queensland is sending The importance of the sugar industry to to the International Sugar Conference at the State can never be over-estimated. 1 Geneva later this year will be a dairyman sincerely hope that the loss of the British 3008 Sugar Experiment Stations [15 MARCH 1973) Act Amendment Bill market will not mean a loss of Government Mr. JENSEN (Bundaberg) (10.2 p.m.): I confidence in the industry such as occurred enter the debate to deal particularly with with the wheat, fruit, dairying and wool a few points covered by the Bill. I have industries. However, when distress signals worked in the sugar industry most of my start to fly, this Government, which has life and do not intend to laud it or the always taken the easy course, will men who have controlled the bureau. I undoubtedly duck for cover as it did in its have worked with Owen Sturgess and Ken dealing with the primary industries of the Leverington, and I know their ability and West, which are now virtually non-existent. that of the bureau and what they have Sugar is worth over $200,000,000 in export­ done for the industry. I support those hon­ able value, and represents approximately 9 ourable members who have lauded the per cent of Australia's farm-~xport income. bureau for what it has done. Its importance and relativity to the national However, I wish to raise a few ways income-and, as the honourable member for in which I think it is lacking. Because Mackay said, to decentralisation-must neces­ a department is highly efficient, it does sarily remain paramount in the Government's not mean that there are no areas in which attempts to gain fresh market outlets. Above it could be given guidance or in which all, we should try to keep people from losing it has been lax. When the Minister was heart and faith in our agricultural future, speaking, I interjected that there has been thus preventing them from cluttering up our laxity in control of Fiji disease. The cities. honourable member for Hinchinbrook claimed that I was trying to denigrate the As the honourable member for Mackay work of the experiment stations. That said, the first Australian sales of sugar to was a stupid remark. I spoke on this China were recently effected, and increased matter two years ago and I will speak quantities of sugar have been sold to Japan. on it again. 1 believe that these countries took this important step as a means of absorbing the I support the honourable members for United Kingdom quota. I believe that in the Mackay and Warrego in attacking the Mini­ interests of the Government and the people ster for not effecting the decision of the of this State, the Government must swallow cane-growers' conference which voted 18 to its present antipathy towards mainland China. 13 in favour of having one representative from each mill on the council. Last year Australia has been fortunate enough to the vote was 19 to 12. A similar vote establish a sugar quota with the United has been recorded for the past three years, States of America. This, like our beef but the previous Minister for Primary Indus­ quota, has been a tremendous boost in tries would not bow to the wishes of the stabilising our industries and giving us conference. Nor has the present Minister. a feeling of importance in that our products He has listened to a few of his cronies are really wanted, because they are first­ around the place. class and are being absorbed by the richest country in the world. Of special signific­ Mr. Sullivan: You have made mention of ance and interest is that the largest sugar­ it but you have made no representations producer in the world-Russia-last year to me. made its first importation of Australian sugar. Mr. JENSEN: I have made representations, That is very important to Australia. I but I do not have to write to the Minister. find it remarkable that, although for years I am raising the matter in this Parliament. we have traded extensively with Russia, the If they want to come along behind my present Government finds every excuse back and go to the honourable member possible to snub and condemn any Chinese for Burnett because they think he may have trade. For what reason, I do not know. your ear, and they take him up to have I suppose if a reason had to be found, it dinner with you to crawl to you, it does could be that the present Government has not worry me one iota. always been sectional. This can hardly be complimentary to a nation such as China. The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. W. with 25 per cent of ,the earth's population. D. Hewitt): Order! The honourable mem­ ber will direct his comments through the I am no admirer-£ never have been Chair. and never could be-of the Government's rural policies. They have been long out­ Mr. JENSEN: I shall. I just wanted to dated and are completely and totally record that I appreciated what was said inadequate. The personnel of the Lands by the honourable member for Mackay. The Department and of the Primary Industries vote of the conference was there, and it Department, with limited opportunities, have, has been there for years. through efficiency, proved themselves to be I said in this Chamber two years ago, a wonderful group of men. In spite of as is recorded in "Hansard", that Fiji disease the Government's policies they have achieved was spreading in Bundaberg. The amend­ much. I also direct this commendation to ment then before the Chamber was to allow the officers of the Bureau of Sugar Experi­ the investment of $40,000 of the board's ment Stations. funds, and I said that that money should Sugar Experiment Stations (15 MARCH 1973] Act Amendment Bill 3009 be used to eradicate the disease before it I came into this Chamber two years ago spread further. The honourable member and said that there was laxity in dealing for Hinchinbrook says that the disease had with this disease. Now, two years later, been contained. It has not been anything it has still not been contained. In fact, it like contained; it has spread like wildfire. has been allowed to spread. The Govern­ Perhaps I should not say that it has spread ment is at last doing something. !ike wildfire, but, from the way it has been The report of the Bureau of Sugar Experi­ found lately since more men have been put ment Stations shows the estimated losses onto this job, it appears to have spread from other types of pests such as rats like wildfire. The Fairymead mill has more and pigs. Losses from these causes have increased in recent years. Control of rats men looking for the disease than the cane was nearly achieved a few years ago, but pest control board had. It is only in the losses from them have again increased. It last year that sufficient men have been put on is all shown in the report. Rats caused a to go through the farms. If the Minister will loss of 29,000 tons of cane in the 1971 read the annual report that I have in my hand, crop, and grubs caused a loss of 20,000 he will see that the disease has been found tons. Pigs are damaging cane in the North. on one or two farms in the Moreton and The first disease that I was concerned with lsis areas. If men were sent through was mosaic. It was a disease that did not many more farms, they might find a lot affect the cane very much. It was easy more of it. The Government brought to detect, and it could be rogued out. Then an amendment down two years ago to permit came Fiji disease. We rogued it out, and the investment of money collected at 2 cents we got rid of 2878 and 2725. 1 ton to eradicate the disease. The board N.Co.310 is one of the greatest canes ever did not want to spend it; they wanted to imported into this country. When I was in invest it. I said that it should have been the Mackay area, not one stick of N.Co.310 ,p~nt to eradicate the disease. was grown. Today it represents about 40 per cent of the crop. In the 1950's about This disease was found in 1969. It was 90 per cent of the cane was Q.50-I think brought to notice before that. but it was it went up to 95 per cent-but at that not recognised in N .Co.3l 0. It had dif­ time the Director told the farmers that ferent characteristics from when it it could have serious effects on the industry was found in P.O.J. 2878 and 2725 back if they continued growing such a high per­ in the 1930's and early 1940's. Men centage of one variety. In spite of that, in paid to look for diseases have been in the last few years about 90 per cent of that area for the last 20 years, but I suppose N.Co.310 has been grown in the Bundaberg they were concentrating on other matters area, according to the report of the Director. and missed it. If this disease had been I reiterate that serious problems can arise -1'> serious as downy mildew or some of when one variety is grown to that extent the other diseases that have been encountered in an area. If a disease such as downy during the history (>f the sugar industry, mildew hits the crop, it could wipe it out. it could have wiped out the Bundaberg crop The Director pointed this out when I was in the next few years. That is why it in the Mackay district. He introduced Q.50, is so serious. Downy mildew wiped out Q.58 and Q.63, which is the highest-producing the crop in Mackay in the 1930's. variety ever used in the industry. Unfor­ There have been other diseases and pests tunately, Q.63 is now being attacked by in this industry, and the growers and the leaf-scald. N.Co.310 has proved fairly good Board have done a mighty job in discovering in the Mackay area, and if Fiji disease them and dealing with them. When a spreads there farmers will have the same disease is found and there is money to deal trouble that farmers in the Bundaberg area with it, it should be used for that purpose, are now experiencing. I again stress the not invested. Now the levy has to be danger of growing only one variety. Q.50 increased to 5 cents. The Farrymead growers virtually put the Mackay district back on would not mind that at all, nor would its feet; now it represents only about 4 per the mill, because they are paying more men cent of the crop. than the board ever paid to look for the As I said, N.Co.310 represents over 90 disease. When more men are put on this per cent of the cane grown in the Bundaberg work in the Nambour and Isis districts, more district. Farmers could well grow other of it will be found there, too, especially in varieties, and they must be made to switch. Q.71. The bureau is developing new varieties con­ It is not affecting the crop to any great tinually. Naturally, growers do not wish to extent in the Bundaberg area, and that is switch to a new variety until they know readily seen. In fact, the Bundaberg area it is better than the one they are growing. had its greatest production of all time last However, it is no good growing a variety if year. However, it will affect the crop if there is a risk of losing 50 per cent of the it is allowed to continue. It does not crop in a year or two. 1ffect the big cane, but it does affect cane Some sugar experiment stations overseas from infected stock. That is why areas have breed varieties of cane to suit the miller also. :o be set aside for growing new plants. In Queensland, we look only at the farming 3010 Sugar Experiment Stations [15 MARCH 1973] Act Amendment Bill

side and breed canes to suit the farmers. For authority to clean out cane from unassigned example, N.Co.310 has a very high starch land. No mill should accept cane from unas­ content throughout the world. It is worse signed land. Perhaps one or two co-opera­ in South Africa, where it came from origin­ tives might. Perhaps the chairman of ally. Millers have to invest big sums of directors might be growing a bit of cane money to produce sugar of a quality that for plants, and he might slip a bit of can be sold on world markets. Queensland the cane into the milL But that does not is selling its sugar because the millers install happen in privately controlled mills. The equipment that enables them to produce sugar Minister has done the right thing this time. of that quality. Years ago Queensland sold at least. sugar to Canada, and that country refused When the then Minister introduced silly to take any more shipments of sugar from amendments two years ago, objections were Mackay and the mills had to spend money raised, but no heed was taken of them. to make the quality acceptable. Now the Minister is doing the right thing. In my opinion, the Bureau of Sugar Experi­ It is possible to see sugar cane growing ment Stations should undertake research and in Rockhampton and at different places along test cane for milling quality as well as for the railway line. One honourable member its suitability for farmers. The work really referred to cane growing on land that had gets back to the mill technology section, in been vacated when a road went through an which I worked for 8 years. The farmers area. Such cane could be full of Fiji dis­ will complain about the price and say that ease. Nothing has been done about that the millers are catching them for money type of cane before. The Government had when they grow other varieties; but they do a chance to do it, but it wanted to invest not ever mention how much the mills have to the money. I do not know what donkey spend in correcting troubles arising from the suggested that amendment to the Govern­ manufacture of sugar from the varieties of ment. However, the Minister has done a cane that they are growing. little better this time. The sugar experiment stations will not have any worries about The honourable member for Warrego trying to eradicate diseases if they will push mentioned splitting of, and the size of, the the boards in when they should be pushed billets. The splitting of billets affects the in. They have got the money and they can mills because of infection. The farmers put men on the cane pests and disease con­ did not care until the Director told trol boards. This should have been done them at their conference last year to keep two years ago. to the correct-sized billets. I do not blame the farmers altogether. A number of mills I will conclude on that note. I do not wanted 6-inch billets because they got heavier want to stand here for 20 minutes lauding the Minister and his officers as Government truck weights and did not have to put on members do. That is mainly what we get so many trucks. That was the combined from them. fault of millers and farmers. Harvesters were made to cut 6-inch billets until it was found Hon. V. B. SULUVAN (Condamine­ that the deterioration in those billets was Minister for Primary Industries) (1 0.19 p.m.). seriously affecting .the mills and the farmers' in reply: I thank the honourable members on c.c.s., and it was realised that something had both sides for the manner in which they to be done about it. have accepted the Bill. Those who confined Not enough money is being spent on the themselves to the Bill had no real criticism eradication of the leaf-hopper. The leaf­ of it. They agreed that although perhaps hopper is the carrier of Fiji disease. At some of these things are overdue, at least the present time it is in plague proportions they are now being achieved. I did not in the Bundaberg district. It is much worse detect any argument against them on either than mosquitoes and beetles. The residents side of the Chamber. of Bundaberg have to put up with them in I thank honourable members for their their houses. In some parts of Bundaberg words of praise for Mr. Norman King, Mr. the residents cannot switch on lights at Owen Sturgess and other officers of the night because of the leaf-hoppers. bureau. I agree entirely with their words One good feature of the Bill is the provision of commendation, because these are men to permit ploughing and roguing out of cane who have made a wonderful contribution on unassigned land. Two years ago the to research in the sugar industry. Of Act was amended to provide that a sugar course, other matters were brought in. For mill could be fined $1,000 if it accepted cane instance, the honourable member for Mackay from unassigned land. I said then that it introduced a couple of thoughts with which was a stupid amendment. I pointed out I do not agree. how stupid it was to fine a mill when there Mr. Casey: Very serious ones, too. The was already power to rogue out unwanted sugar industry agrees with them. cane on assigned land. The mills could not accept cane from unassigned land yet the Mr. SULLIVAN: The first one was on the Government produced that amendment two delegation of authority. years ago instead of what is being proposed today, which will mean that there will be Mr. Casey interjected. Sugar Experiment, &c., Bill [15 MARCH 1973] Rice Industry, &c., Bill 3011

Mr. SULLIVAN: I listened to the honour­ well in the Mackay "Daily Mercury" able member. I hope he is kind enough to tomorrow morning, but perhaps I will send listen to me. a Press statement along, too, for publication alongside his. The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. W. D. Hewitt): Order! He certainly will. I The honourable member for Bundaberg can assure the Minister of that. had exactly the same thing to say, but I have never had him come along and repre­ Mr. SULLIVAN: The first one was the sent his growers in the matter. delegation of authority, on which he said that possibly in the hands of officers of the Mr. Sherrington interjected. bureau this could be dealt with, and that Mr. SULLIVAN: This is a Government they would be more knowledgeable and per­ that is prepared to listen. I will go further haps more conscientious than I would be. and say that the honourable member for I think "conscientious" was the word he used. Mackay indicated in his speech tonight that he does not have confidence in the Cane Mr. Casey: I did not use that word. Growers' Council. Mr. SULUVAN: I agree that possibly Mr. Casey interjected. they would be more knowledgeable. I also Mr. SULLIVAN: That may be what the agree that they would be conscientious, but honourable member thinks, but other people, { do not think they would be any more con­ including myself, have looked at this situa­ ~cientious than I would be. That is the only tion, have talked to many people, and have point on which I do not agree. taken a lot of advice and come to a decision. The honourable member for Mackay, the The decision is that the numerical strength honourable member for Bundaberg, and pos­ of the Cane Growers' Council should remain sibly the honourable member for Warrego, as it is. That is all I want to say about all mentioned that the sugar industry has that issue. If the honourable member wants lost confidence in me as Minister because something, let him come to me and make ! did not agree to increase the representation representations. I shall deal at the second­ on the Queensland Cane Growers' Council. reading stage with the other matters that I was out of the Chamber for a while and were raised. did not hear the honourable member for Motion (Mr. Sullivan) agreed to. Warrego, so I will leave him aside for the moment. But perhaps the same sugar­ Resolution reported. growers might lose confidence in the honour­ able member for Mackay. who represents a FIRST READING city the economy of which is based very much on the sugar industry, when I tell this Bill presented and, on motion of Mr. Chamber and the sugar-growers of Queens­ Sullivan, read a first time. land that not once have I had a word of recommendation from the honourable mem­ ber for Mackay that the personnel of the RICE INDUSTRY STABILTZATION BILL council should be increased to 31. INITIATION IN COMMITTEE Mr. CASEY: I rise to a point of order. (Mr. Wharton, Burnett, in the chair) The Minister is making an incorrect state­ Hon. V. B. SULLIVAN (Condamine­ ment. A check of "Hansard" will reveal that Minister for Primary Industries) (10.27 p.m.): I made such a request in this Chamber last I move- year. "That a Bill be introduced to provide The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: Order! for the stabilisation of the rice industry, The Minister will accept the honourable and for connected purposes." member's assurance. This Bill is relatively simple and straight­ forward. I am introducing it at the request Mr. SULLIVAN: I accept his assurance of the rice producers themselves, who are in that regard, but the honourable member unanimous in their request. The Queensland is well aware that I met delegations of sugar­ rice industry is still relatively small in com­ growers, supported by honourable members parison with the one in New South Wales. from this side of the Chamber. I listened Most honourable members will be aware that to the arguments from those who wanted the New South Wales industry is controlled, the representation increased, and I also lis­ and production is limited to what can be sold tened to a delegation from those who did at a reasonable average price. It is a stable not want it increased. The honourable mem­ industry, and it would be most unfortunate ber for Mackay was well aware of this, but if production in Queensland were to upset not once did he come to me and put his that stability. point of view or tell me why he thought the number should be increased. So perhaps All Queensland rice-growers recognise this, the sugar-growers might lose a bit of con­ and that is one of the reasons why they so fidence in him. His speech will read very strongly support this measure. They realise 3012 Rice Industry (15 MARCH 1973] Stabilization Bill

also that it is just as much in the interests the quotas will attach to both the grower of the Queensland growers as it is for their and the farm. They will not be transferable New South Wales counterparts to match without the approval of the quota committee. supply to demand. This system is designed to prevent any trafficking in quotas, and it has worked very Export prices for rice have a history of well in other industries. It should be clearlv ups and downs. At present they are very understood that the purpose of a quot~ satisfactory, but only a year or so ago they scheme of this type is to ensure that farmers were quite low. This big fluctuation in in the industry receive a reasonable return. export prices can cause serious problems for n is not designed to enable anyone to cash the farmer unless he is assured that he will in simply by selling his quota. receive a satisfactory price for a substantial part of his production. This is what the Bill The second matter I should like to draw sets out to achieve. To put it in a nutshell attention to is the need for flexibility in the domestic market and certain export any scheme of this kind. All too often markets are quite stable and return reason­ stabilisation schemes are made too rigid and. able prices. as a result, changing circumstances cannot be The Bill will enable the industry to operate dealt with effectively. In the present Bill the two pools. The No. 1 pool will cover the general basis of operation of quotas has been quantity of rice that can be sold on the included, but provision has been made for domestic market plus the more certain export the detailed basis of allocation to be pre­ markets. This No. 1 pool will be split up scribed by regulation. amongst growers by means of a quota system, Honourable members will appreciate thal thus every grower will know the quantity of seasons and market conditions can change rice he can deliver at the stable No. 1 pool very rapidly, and that it will be necessary to price. Any grower will still be able to pro­ keep the overall No. 1 pool quota under duce as much as he wishes, but if he produces constant review. Further, the position of more than his quota the excess will go into a No. 2 pool, and he will have to take the individual farmers, particularly those in the risk on what it returns. It will be a matter smaller categories, can change with time, for the grower himself to determine whether and it is essential that any scheme to be or not he should produce over his quota. adopted is flexible enough to deal with such ;. situation. In detail, the Bill follows very closely the tobacco and wheat quota legislation which Another matter I would mention at thir, has proved very successful. In fact I doubt stage is the provision that has been made that we would find many tobacco-growers regarding reduction or forfeiture of quotas. in Queensland today who are not whole­ The Bill will give the quota committee power heartedly behind stabilisation schemes of to call on any grower who consistently fails this type. In the present Bill the same pro­ to grow his quota to show cause why i1 cedure has been followed with regard to should not be reduced or forfeited. This control by a quota committee, with provision follows the principle adopted in other scheme'· for appeal by growers to an appeals tribunal. of this type. It is intended to ensure that In this case the quota committee will consist quotas are not left lying idle while other of four members. Three of them will be farmers are willing and able to produce. nominated by the Rice Marketing Board, a grower-elected body. The fourth member One major difference between the rice­ quota scheme and the wheat and tobacco will be the Director of Marketing of my schemes is that a grower can get two crop:i department or his deputy. There will be an appeals tribunal of two, one of whom will be of rice a year. For that reason, although a former magistrate or a barrister-at-law. The growers' basic quotas will be allocated on a other will be nominated by the Rice Market­ full-year basis, provision has been made for ing Board. Any grower will have the right to the allocation of adjusted quotas for each appeal to the tribunal against any decision Tice season. This provision is designed 10 by the committee if he considers that the ensure that the paddy rice will not overtax decision was wrong in law, was manifestly available storage at the rice mill in one or unfair or would cause severe personal hard­ other part of the year. It will be appreciated ship. that all rice has to be milled before it i~ saleable, and production and milling capacit\ When honourable members have an oppor­ must be geared together. tunity to examine the Bill, they will see that many of its provisions are concerned with Finally, I should like to pay a tribute to the ?sua] mundane, but necessary, admini­ the rice-growers of North Queensland, in strative matters, such as the conduct of both the Burdekin and Ingham districts. meetings, appointment of chairman, terms of Officers at the Millaroo Research Station firs! office, finance, accounts, and so on. I do not started work on rice trials in 1955. Some propose to go into those matters in detail small trials on upland rice had been nnder­ now, but I will be happy to answer any taken a little earlier, but it could be said that questions on them at a later stage. There the real start with paddy rice was in 1955. are, however, one or two matters to which Work with the Bluebonnet variety, which i~ I should like to refer at this stage. Firstly, the one now grown, did not commence until Rice Industry [15 MARCH 1973] Stabilization Bill 3013

!96 L The first seed was not released until any. The only restriction that existed was I 965-66 and the first commercial plantings on their right to market over and above ;tarted in 1966-67, when a little over 50 their allotted quotas if the market was fully acres was planted. By 1971 the acreage had supplied. increased to 9,567, which yielded 15,054 tons. In other words, quotas protect a producer's Under the quota scheme provided for in the fair share of the existing market in the Bill the State quota will be determined each event of over-production, that fair share year, but it is intended to set the initial quota being based on his proven record of per­ Jt 22,000 tons. That is an excellent record for a very young, but very virile, industry. formance over a selected period in that particular industry. If a person wishes I commend the motion to the Committee. to back his judgment on shortfalls with extra production and, at the same time, Mr. BLAKE (lsis) (10.35 p.m.): The accept the fact that he can capitalise on purpose of this Bill is to stabilise the shortfalls but will not be allowed to usurp Queensland rice industry by the allocation the rnarket entitlement of another producer of grower quotas to the Rice Marketing in the event of market fulfilment, to my Board. This principle meets with the approval knowledge he is perfectly free to do so. of the Opposition because it follows our uwn policy of planned production and Similarly, I still find this misconception orderly marketing, in keeping with reason­ about quotas in the sugar industry, even ably assured market outlets. after so many years of orderly production and marketing. Cane farmers who have After years of expcri ence in the sugar farm peaks and prolific irrigation water, and :nclthtry, and with some knowledge of other therefore are able to gauge their production :~;dustries, through good and bad years, I fairlv accurately, have asked me, "Is it am a firm believer in planned production fair ·that we should have to leave unharvested and orderly marketing. This principle is up to 50 per cent of our crop if it is over­ always attacked in times of adversity by peak production and not required, or ~ritics or deserters from the principle, but, acquired, by the sugar board?" Un~ort~mate.ly over all, I am quite convinced that it for the grower of excess cane, It IS fmr. ;,, the only sound policy in the long term Fortunately for his fellow grower, it is also for a primary industry. ln the face of fair otherwise the grower of excess cane varying local seasons and production, coupled WOl;ld be harvesting at the expense of his with the vagaries and pressures of overseas fellow grower's market entitlement. aop fluctuations, admittedly no system is perfect. But I firmly believe that we To take the chance of capitalising on pro­ have a better chance of success with orderly duction in excess of quotas in the event of production and orderly marketing than with shortfalls is the choice of every producer, hit-or-miss methods or over-production above but he must not profit at the expense of the limits of profitable markets. his fellow producer when normal market requirements are met. I repeat that even !t is surprising to me to find many pro­ if planned agricultural pro?u~tion ~n~ ma_r­ Jucers-and unfortunately, legislators-who keting has errors and omtsswns, tt ts sttll do not fully understand the full and true much more likely to succeed and benefit a implications of production-quota restrictions. greater majority of producers than an "open 1\iany people consider quotas to be a purely go" policy. undesirable restriction in good seasons and cl superfluity in bad seasons. I find that The Minister's introductory remarks indi­ this false attitude exists in many quota­ cate the establishment of a rice quota com­ restricted industries. mittee composed of four members appointed by the Minister, three to be nominated by Recently several wheat-growers said to the board -from among the selected mem­ rne that they considered it folly to have bers and the fourth to be the Director of recently introduced wheat quotas in view Marketing. It appears that the proposed nf the present wheat shortages. 1 asked committee is to operate with powers similar them to remember the glutted state of the to those exercised by the Tobacco Quota industry and the Jack of both market Committee, but with a recommended pro­ rro<;pects and storage capacity when the duction limit of 22,000 tons. I confess quotas were introduced. 1 also asked them that T am not very familiar with the dis­ if they could honestly say that they were position of rice markets at the present time, in favour of unrestricted production at that but this amount apparently tallies with what time and if they had foreseen the present the producers think is in keeping with reason­ 'hortage'. They said-I think quite sincerely ably profitable markets. --that they had foreseen the present ,:;ortages based on their personal knowledge An appeals tribunal is also provided for. d the wheat industry's performance in the This is a normal set-up within a quota sys­ P'>L I told them that 1 'Has not aware tem, and it allows aggrieved people who vf any restriction on their wish or right think that they have had a raw deal with t·J produce in keeping ith their own their quotas to apply for justice and some ~onvictions. And I still do not know of form of compensation. 3014 Rice Industry [15 MARcH 1973) Stabilization Bill

The Minister said that there will be two true ability. For example, he might suffer pools. I understand that there will be a an accident-break a leg, or something of stable No. 1 pool, and a No. 2 pool at that sort-or other circumstances may arise. growers' risk. Is the 22,000 tons all part An appeals tribunal is therefore an integral of No. 1 pool, and is there unlimited pro­ and necessary part of the legislation. duction for No. 2 pool? The machinery provided is familiar to all Mr. Sullivan: 22,000 tons is the quota for honourable members who have seen similar No. 1 pool. structures established in other industries. The Opposition reserves further criticism until it Mr. BLAKE: I do not know the soil and is better informed on the Bill. irrigation potential of the area concerned, so I cannot visualise the extent of the Mr. BIRD (Burdekin) (10.47 p.m.): At the unlimited No. 2 pool production at growers' outset, I thank the Minister very sincerely, risk. Of course, if potential export markets on behalf of the rice-growers in the Burdekin did not justify the risk, I suppose that the and Ingham areas, for the introduction of production position would adjust itself. the Bill. It will give legality to a principle that received Cabinet approval in December An Honourable Member: There are two 1971, setting up the Rice Marketing Board crops a year. and an interim quota committee.

Mr. BLAKE: I understand that. If, I should also like to say how thankful the because of weather or other conditions, a growers are to that very dedicated officer grower produced only one-third of his quota Mr. Des Lapidge, Director of Marketing, and in one six-monthly period, I take it that he his officers for the tremendous amount of could grow the other two-thirds of his quota work they have done in past years to enable for the No. 1 pool in the second half of the Rice Marketing Board to be brought into the year. Is that correct? being and to assist in setting up the interim quota committee and a quota system to ensure Mr. Sullivan: Yes. that production did not greatly exceed demand until this legislation could be Mr. BLAKE: That is the normal and sens­ introduced. ible way of dealing with that situation. Cer­ I know the amount of work that Mr. tainly there could not be a production of Lapidge has done, because I have acted on strictly 50 per cent of quota in each six­ behalf of the rice-growers on several occa­ monthly period, because that is just not the sions. I have approached him for advice; ! way with primary production under normal have met him in Brisbane with representative; conditions. of the embryo rice industry; I have also Mr. Wall_is-Smith interjected. attended meetings with him in the Burdekin area. I must admit that I have not attended Mr. BLAKE: The honourable member's meetings in the Ingham area, but there are interjection is an informed one. The Minister not as many rice-growers in that area a' did not indicate in his introductory remarks there are in the Burdekin and it has not been how many growers will share the 22,000-ton considered necessary to have meetings of an) quota in No. 1 pool. Therefore, there is no magnitude there. indication of what production is necessary I should like to traverse briefly the reasom to make one farm unit viable. why it has been decided to introduce a quota system and set up a marketing board in the Mr. Sullivan: I do not know the figure rice-growing industry at this stage. The off hand. Minister has already told the Committee that the first rice was grown at the Millaroo Mr. BLAKE: Perhaps honourable members Research Station, which is about 20 mile' could be given some indication of that later. from Ayr, in 1955. I do not think anybody I know it is a problem that will be decided really envisaged when the first rice wa, by the quota committee, but it would be planted by the officers of the Millaroo informative if the Minister let honourable Research Station that the industry would members know later what is considered to rapidly grow into what it has become today. be the tonnage needed to make a farm viable Possibly it might not have grown so rapidly with the present market return on 22,000 but for the introduction of the Bluebonnet tons of No. 1 pool rice. variety in 1961. That seems to be the thing that really got the rice industry of the I do not think there is much need for me Burdekin and Ingham areas off the ground. to go any further into the proposal at present. The machinery for setting up a quota com­ I can remember-it seems such a short mittee and for the setting of quotas is very time ago-calling on the Rolfe brothers, who similar in principle to the machinery now were among the pioneer rice-growers after used in other industries. The provision for it had been first !!rown at the Millaroo appeals is very necessary because anomalies Research Station. ~ Those people were do occur. Circumstances beyond a producer's absolutely dedicated. They believed that control may cause him to have a production rice-growing had a definite future in North record completely out of keeping with his Queensland. They were so dedicated that Rice Industry (15 MARCH 1973] Stabilization Bill 3015 they bought their own small mill and com­ well versed in the sugar-growing industry, menced milling rice on a very small scale being a member of the Pioneer Mill Sup­ at their home farm in Dalbeg. Those people pliers' Committee and the Ayr District Cane have continued to contribute a great deal Growers' Executive. vVe can therefore see to the growth of the rioe industry since that right from the outset the rice industry that time. Mr. Tom Rolfe in particular had the benefit of the knowledge of men has shown his ability and his interest in well versed in the advantages of orderly the industry to the extent that he is now marketing and production. chairman of the Rice Marketing Board. I am very pleased to know that one of our As I said earlie1·, I am extremely pleased local men is the chairman of the board. that the Minister has seen fit to bring this Bill before the Committee tonight, ratifying As I have said, it was not until the intro­ an agreement that received the approval of duction of the Bluebonnet variety that rice­ Cabinet back in 1971. It is fortunate that this growing really started to become the industry has been done at a time when it is not going of the people of the Burdekin and Ingham to be necessary to cut back production to areas. It soon was realised that rice could arrive at the present quota of 22,000 tons. be a profitable crop, particularly in areas Fortunately, production today in the rice where cane-growers were restricted in pro­ industry in Queensland has not reached Juction. Most of the people who became 22,000 tons, so that any disappointment to interested in rice-growing in the initial stages people who might have a quota allocated to were cane farmers. Having been brought them slightly lower than their production up with the system of cane assignments and will be avoided. -:ane peaks, they realised at a very early 'tagc the advantages that accrued from Generally, industries make the mistake of c11derly production. When it was obvious bringing in a quota system when the industry that the rice industry would grow far more concerned is already in dire straits as a rapidly than had ever been expected, they result of over-production, but the rice indus­ decided the best thing they could do was try, which has not yet produced 22,000 tons, to set up a rice marketing board at the is starting off with a quota fixed at that earliest possible moment. This was essential figure. Not for one moment do I say that before a quota committee could be set up. the industry today could not produce 22,000 They determined that following the forma­ tons of paddy rice in a year. I believe it is tion of a rice marketing board a quota quite capable of doing this. Unfortunately, ~ommittee should be set up and quotas given last year, which was the best year for pro­ ;o every rice-grower and. of course, to the duction, started off with a cyclone in the mills. area, resulting in a considerable loss of rice Those who know the rice industry in the while it was still in the paddies. It could Burdekin and Herbert River areas will be not be harvested and sent to the mill. I Jware that we already have two rice mills. repeat that the industry is undoubtedly hoth located in the Burdekin, one at Brandon capable of producing 22,000 tons of rice, but e1nd the other across the river in Home Hill. in its wisdom it has seen the advantages of It might be said that it is rather unfortunate adopting that figure as the quota. It might that we had to start off with two rice mills. well be asked why 22,000 tons was chosen. It is not my intention tonight to debate Considerable thought has been given to this whether this has been the best thing for matter, and it is appreciated that, although the industry, although it does not seem to markets are available for an amount in have had any detrimental effect on the excess of 22,000 tons, that is the tonnage ,(rowth of the rice industry. Both mills that can be economically milled at the c~re today satisfying the needs of the growers present time. in the Lower Burdekin and Ingham areas. While on the subject of milling, I should As I said earlier, the rice farmers realised like to thank the Government very much for from their experience in the sugar industry its financial assistance to, and the confidence the advantages that would accrue from the shown in, the rice industry at the start of nrderly growing and orderly marketing of its operations by guaranteeing loans and their product. They therefore approached enabling the mill at Home Hill to be set up. the then Minister (Mr. John Row) and asked The guarantees given by the Government him to set up these committees. Thanks to were in the form of an assurance to the the dedication of such men as Mr. Ken people who supplied the machinery to the Lewis, the first chairman of the Rice mill that the cost would be met in the event Growers' Association, Mr. Joe Tapiolas, a of the failure of the industry. However, well-known businessman in Ayr, Mr. Dave the industry has fulfilled all its obligations. Dunn, Mr. Ron Landrigan, the present chair­ In addition to fulfilling its obligations in the man of the Rice Growers' Association, and initial provision of buildings and machinery others who followed in their footsteps, it has also been able to finance extensions moves were made to have the Rice Market­ and the installation of additional machinery. ing Board set up and the quota committee However, the mill realises that it would face brought into existence. The first chairman a problem if it were required to produce an d the interim rice-growing committee is additional 5,000 tons a year. The most \fr. Ray Hoey. a man who is also extremely economic figure at the present time for paddy 3016 Rice Industry (15 MARCH 1973] Stabilization Bill rice is 22,000 tons. The mill expects that Mr. O'DONNELL: I listened intently t0 if further quotas are allocated the additional the contribution of the honourable member allocation could be in the vicinity of 20,000 for Burdekin because he is particularly tons, and I have no doubt that markets will interested in this industry, which is located be found for an additional 20,000 tons. in his area. He made the important state­ The Bluebonnet variety grown in the ment that there is plenty of land suitable Burdekin area is a long, hard-grain variety, for the production of rice in his area and in other areas of North Queensland. That and it is not grown in the Murrumbidgee is where one of the dangers lies. People Irrigation Area. Prior to its cultivation in with land suitable for a certain crop are the Burdekin and Herbert River areas, long­ foolish enough to expand their activities grain varieties were imported from North to their own detriment and possibly to the America at considerable cost. It is hearten­ detriment of the industry generally. Thai ing to see that, in addition to supplying temptation must be avoided. The establish­ the domestic market for long-grain varieties, ment of an industry under quota is actually North Queensland rice is now being exported a closing of the industry until, in the wisdom to America. As well, excellent markets have of industry leaders and the Government of been found in England and other countries. the day, it is decided that there should he It appears that because of the popularity of an expansion. the long-grain varieties there will be no Not long ago an expansion took place trouble in finding even further markets for in the sugar industry. Judging by the them. I congratulate the Rice Marketing clamour we heard in this Assembly from Board and the North Queensland rice indus­ various interested persons, it could have try on the handling of its marketing affairs. been thought that the sugar industry wa; coming to an end. No doubt the peopk As I said earlier, Mr. Tom Rolfe had who came into the industry at that stage c?mp~ete confidence in the future of the have been, and still are, putting up with nee mdustry and, with his brother John hardships associated with establishing them­ commenced the milling of rice in North selves. We must always realise that when Queel!sland. Recently he has travelled over­ we close an industry, as we are doing in seas m search of markets for this rice I this instance, it is important that the industry do not think a better man could have been leaders and the Government should adopt c~osen for the position of chairman of the a wise and cautious approach to its futurt'. ~1ce . Marketing Board. The Queensland I have always advocated closed industrie,. !Ice mdus~ry has been highly successful in I have often stated in this Assembly that 1ts marketm_g arrangements, and I have no even with our very profitable beef industry doubt that . it will continue to be equally as we must watch the future and be ever vigil­ successful m the future. ant. If we converted to beef production ~gain I thank the Minister and Mr. all the land in Queensland suitable for it. ~ap1dge for the assistance they have given we would shortly find ourselves in a very m the past to rice-growers, who, I am sure, parlous state indeed. Fortunately expansion can look forward to further assistance in has not reached that stage. There is no the future. reason at all to attempt anything like impos­ ing quotas in that industry, but we musl Mr. O'DONNELL (Belyando) (11.5 p.m.): guard against the future. It is essential thai I_ support the statement made by the Opposi­ right from the beginning of this industry. which has a small production, there should tion's shadow Minister (Mr. Blake) that the be wise government, having regard to future measure, on the Minister's outline of it is population growth and successful marketing in line with Labor policy. It is important not only at home but also overseas. that it should be. The introduction of rice into the Murrum­ Mr. Lane: It is, to you. bidgee Irrigation Area years ago was con­ sidered to be an unwise move. It was said. Mr. O'DONN.ELL: It is very important "Who will buy this rice? We know that indeed at this stage to have general approval only a cer:ain market exists in Australia." from both sides of the Assembly. Some Everybody was pleasantly surprised at the Government members cannot restrain them­ results, and that area now has higher pro­ selves. They so dislike anything put forward duction, on an area basis, than many olhc~ by the A.L.P. that they must make rude countries that have produced rice for cen­ and insolent interjections when an A.L.P. turies. The Murrumbidgee growers would member. states a matter of policy, yet Mini­ have been concerned ~· few years ago to sters dmly refuse to answer questions because hear of this idea of establishing this industry they do not wish to reveal policv. We in Queensland. A party of them visited are not ashamed of ours. · Queensland possibly not only to guide and advise but also to make sure that this area Mr. Lane interjected. was not a possible future competitor, because they had done so well in establishing them­ The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honour­ selves and, considering the limitations of the able member for Jovierthyr is interjecting local market, did not want to encourage from other than h1s correct place. competition here or in the overseas market. Rice Industry (15 MARCH 1973] Stabilization Bill 3017

The Minister, in referring to the quota of droughts and floods. and we appreciate the 22,000 tons said that, in 1972, 9,500 acres need to conserve water. No doubt this produced approximately 15,000 tons. I have industry will be used in advancing the argu­ figures which indicate that, in 1971-72, 8,877 ment for the construction of the Burdekin acres produced 12,000 tons and it is esti­ dam. This is an important project in the mated that, without the damage caused by minds of all in the area, and I sincerely cyclone "Althea", the production would have hope that the requirements of the new indus­ been 20,000 tons. On that basis, the present try will further efforts to obtain that dam. production would be about 22,000 tons, which is close to what the Minister outlined as the Mr. F. P. MOORE (Mourilyan) (11.19 maximum production for No. 1 pool. No. p.m.): Although I do not intend to speak at 2 pool production is the trap, and growers great length on this Bill, I feel that I must come in at their own risk. I hope that mention that the investigation by the Opposi­ what was said tonight about the quality of tion's primary industries committee into the the grain is true and that it will find a ready market. possibilities of the rice industry led us to the belief that Mr. Lapidge must have made It is rather disquieting that it has taken a deep study of it. When we look at the so long for the Government to agree to the areas under rice, and their production figures wishes of this board. I would have been as they appear in the "Rice Bulletin", which happier to discuss this legislation six to 12 is published monthly by the Commonwealth months ago, because I feel that Bills to Secretariat, Marlborough House, London, we control an industry cannot be introduced find that in Australia there were 99,000 too quickly. I say this because of the prim­ acres under paddy rice in 1969-70, 95,000 ary producer who may be prepared to gamble. acres in 1970-71, and 93,000 acres in 1971-72. It is strange that the area in Australia This could be regarded as a sideline decreased between 1969-70 and 1971-72. It industry. The fact that there has been would lead one to believe that there arc some Government assistance is rather pleas­ very high hopes for rice growing in Queens­ ing. However, I was concerned some time land. ago about the lack of Government assist• ance. One of the pioneers in the tea The figures show that in 1969-70 240,000 industry, Dr. Maruff, comes to mind. He tons of rice were produced, in 1970-71 established a treatment plant, but his pro­ 290,000 tons, and in 1971-72 246,000 tons. duction was not sufficient to allow the plant Again, the figures would lead one to believe that a great deal of thought has gone into to work for the full 12 months a year. I fixing the quota of 22.000 tons for No. 1 hope that the rice mills-someone mentioned pool rice. two-associated with this industry are kept operating continuously so that there will not To me, the most interesting point is that be an employment problem for the workers. Australia has the highest yield per acre That, too, is important. in the world, according to this bulletin. The production per acre is shown as- As all honourable members know, a prob­ cwt. lem has arisen with the introduction of grain­ growing industries. It was a feature of the 1969-70 34.5 introduction of sorghum growing in Central 1970-71 42.7 Queensland. There are in the grain-growing 34.4 areas vast numbers of white cockatoos. There 1971-72 are also ducks, geese and brolgas, and The last figure would seem to be about the unfortunately farmers have received average, and I should like to hear more unfavourable publicity because they have had figures from the Minister relative to the to resort to shooting birds that destroy crops. Burdekin and Ingham areas because I have I suppose many of us would be quite happy always been an advocate for alternative crops to shoot a duck, and perhaps a goose, because in case of problems arising in the sugar each makes a good dinner, but I am afraid industry. that farmers would lose public sympathy if they put bullets into brolgas. Anyone who In speaking about quotas, the Minister has lived in country areas where brolgas are referred to the tobacco industry. Some common regard them as a great attraction, people in that industry are satisfied. How­ and almost as local friends. I hope that the ever, as a result of my travels throughout the problem of crop destruction by birds is over­ State, for the life of me I cannot see why come bv some means other than the one people in the Inglewood, Texas and Y elarbon that has· of necessity been used to date. areas of this State have only 5-ton quotas when people in the area of my birth, Mareeba. I wish the rice industry every success. If have quotas of up to 20-odd tons, and even the Bill is as outlined by the Minister, the up to 40 tons on share-farming areas. Opposition will have nothing but commenda­ tion for it. I think it is very pleasing to I have said on other occasions that tobacco find farmers branching out into new fields. could be grown in the Herbert River area. We all know very well the disasters of particularly in the Innot Hot Springs area. 3018 Rice Industry, &c., Bill [16 MARCH 1973] Questions Upon Notice in my electorate. People there are not being considered for additional quotas, which tend to go to the Mareeba-Dimbulah area. In my opinion, the quota system has tended to favour certain people in the tobacco industry. Mr. Anthony has frequently said, both in Parliament and at farmers' meetings, "If you can't get big, get out." That is not the policy of the Australian Labor Party, and I am opposed to any increase in quotas that will allow big farmers to grow even bigger. What is to happen to rice-growers in the Burdekin and Ingham areas? What are the acreages now? The Government's original offer to the farmers at Ayr was $20,000 for a rice mill. I do not know whether or not this is true, but according to an article in "The Courier-Mail" of 2 February 1968, the biggest rice-growers at that time were Mr. J. Ostrzenski with about 120 acres, and the Rolfe brothers with 70 acres. Does the Government intend to level out the quotas of the persons who are now growing rice on those areas? The honourable member for Belyando mentioned problems associated with fauna. I have before me a newspaper article headed "Bird raiders hit rice farmers." I thought that the honourable member for Burdekin must have hit one of the rice farmers. Accord­ ing to this article the shotgun is the only answer, and the imposition of quotas will cause more problems. I did not hear the Minister mention any pests or diseases that affect the rice industry. Mr. Bird interjected. :vir. F. P. MOORE: We hear a lot of noise fr-om the "Bird" over there. The CHAIRMAN: Order! Mr. F. P. MOORE: The farmers in his area might do better if they tickled him up with a bit of saltpetre. Hon. V. B. SULLIVAN (Condamine­ Minister for Primary Industries) (11.25 p.m.), in reply: I thank honourable members on both sides of the Chamber for the manner in which they have received this Bill. All members agree that it is no use producing merely for the sake of producing, and that production must be geared to available markets. Their ready acceptance of the Bill was pleasing. I think this was natural enough as we work fairly wisely. The officers of the department are on the job, and this is the kind of thing you would expect from us. Motion (Mr. Sullivan) agreed to. Resolution reported.

FIRST READING Bill presented and, on motion of Mr. Sul!ivan, read a first time. The House adjourned at 11.27 p.m.