1970-71

VICTORIA

REPORT

OF THE NATIONAL PARKS AUTHORITY

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30rH JUNE, 1969

Ordered by the Legislative Assembly to be printed, 28th April, 1971.

By AuthoTtiy: C. H. RIXON, GOVERNMENT PRINTER, .

No. 39.-3857/71.-PR.!CB 40 cents. ~. ·' •• ·.I NATIONAL PARKS AUTHORITY, 1 Treasury-place, Melbourne, Vie. 3002.

THIRTEENTH ANNUAL REPORT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30th JUNE, 1969

To the Honorable Sir Henry Bolte, K.C.M.G., M.L.A., Premier of , Melbourne, 3002.

SIR,

In accordance with the requirements of Section 15 of the National Parks Act 1958 (No. 6326), the Authority has the honour to submit to you for presentation to Parliament, its Thirteenth Annual Report covering its activities for the year ended 30th June, 1969.

THE AUTHORITY. The membership of the National Parks Authority during the year under review was as follows:- Chairman : The Honorable J. W. Manson, M.L.A., Minister of State Development. Deputy Chairman : J. H. Aldred, I.S.O., F.R.I.P.A. Members: A. J. Holt, Secretary for Lands ; A. 0. P. Lawrence, B.Sc. (Adel.), Dip.For. (Oxon.), Dip.For. (Canberra), Chairman, Forests Commission of Victoria ; R. G. Downes, M.Agr.Sc., F.A.I.A.S., Chairman, Soil Conservation Authority ; A. Dunbavin Butcher, M.Sc., Director of Fisheries and Wildlife ; Dewar W. Goode, representing organizations concerned with the protection of native fauna and flora ; G. M. Pizzey, representing persons having a special interest in national parks ; E. H. R. Burt, representing the Victorian Ski Association ; G. E. Hindle, to 28th January, 1969 and thereafter T. B. Wilson representing the Victorian Government Tourist Bureau ; L. H. Smith, M.Sc., D.Phil. (Oxon.), F.R.A.C.I., Director of National Parks.

MEETINGS. During the year the Authority held eleven meetings in the Conference Room of the Premier's Department in the New State Public Offices. The following special-purpose sub-committees of the Authority also met during the year : Fire Protection, Proposed Parks, Park Classification, Sites and Buildings as well as the Joint Committees for Mount Buffalo Development, Fern Tree Gully Development and Tidal River Development (Wilson's Promontory). STAFF. In October, 1968, an additional administrative (Class E) officer was appointed to the Authority's staff. 4

VISITS OF INSPECTION. The Authority's inspections covered the following national parks : Wilson's Promontory, Hattah Lakes, Wyperfeld, Mount Buffalo, Glenaladale and the Lakes (Spermwhale Head). Visits were also paid to Sandy Point and Wychitella to inspect areas proposed as possible sites for national parks. All other national parks were visited by the Director or Technical Staff.

WORKS PROGRAMMES. Committees of Management, following the usual practice, prepared Works Programmes for their respective parks as a basis for discussion with the Authority. From these consultations the final operations budgets for the year ended 30th June, 1969 were prepared.

FIRE PROTECTION. The Fire Protection Committee met on five occasions during the year to continue its planning of works designed to reduce the frequency and severity of wildfires in national parks. A comparatively small area of 446 acres of national park land was damaged by fire during the year under review. This was caused by five small fires between December, 1968 and February, 1969 at Mount Richmond (40 acres), Fern Tree Gully (5 acres), Mount Buffalo (0·5 acres), Wyperfeld (400 acres) and Little Desert (0 ·1 acre). The fires at Mount Richmond and Fern Tree Gully were apparently deliberately lit and those at Wyperfeld and Little Desert were caused by lightning strikes.

LEGISLATION. In October, 1968, legislation was passed to increase the area of from 14,079 acres to 14,093 acres, 38 perches and that of Mount Eccles National Park from 84 acres, 20 perches to 974 acres, 20 perches. Further legislation in December, 1968 increased the area of Mount Richmond National Park from 1,534 acres to 2,037 acres and established the Little Desert National Park of 2,870 acres, bringing the number of national parks in Victoria to twenty-one, having a total area of 374,930 acres.

LEASES AND PERMITS. Tidal River Cafe. On the completion of major alterations and extensions to the Tidal River Cafe, which were referred to in the prevfous Annual Report, tenders were invited by public advertisement, following which the Authority granted Mr. and Mrs. R. A. Miller a lease from August, 1968 to 30th September, 1971 to operate the cafe.

Tidal River Store. After public tenders had been called, the Tidal River Store was again leased to Mr. K. F. Blunden for a three-year period ending the 30th September, 1971.

PROPOSED NATIONAL PARKS. l. Wilkin Area. For some years past the Authority has been investigating the possibility of having a national park created in the Wilkin area, near Casterton. It appears now that an area of some 3,300 acres is likely to be available for reservation in this district. It is anticipated that the proposed national park will include the Mill Swamp, which is noted for its waterbirds.

2. Brisbane Ranges. The proposal that a national park should be created in the Brisbane Ranges area was made many years ago and, at first, it seemed that it would be relatively easy to prepare a plan for submission to Parliament. However, as investigations proceeded, it became apparent that there were some complex land tenure problems to be resolved and this has greatly retarded progress. The Lands Department has recently examined this aspect in detail and it now seems likely that some 2,813 acres of land in four close, but not contiguous, areas would be available for reservation as a national park. It might be possible to add to this basic area as "land-tenure" problems are overcome, at some time in the future. The Authority is now pursuing the matter in the hope of finding an early solution. 5

3. Cathedral Range. The Authority's investigations into the possibility of establishing a national park in the Cathedral Range area between Taggerty and Buxton have made satisfactory progress during the year under review. A comprehensive report on the proposal is now being prepared for consideration by the Authority.

4. Little Desert. As previously mentioned, legislation of the lOth December, 1968 dedicated the Little Desert National Park of 2,870 acres. This includes the former Kiata Lowan Sanctuary Reserve of 537 acres. It is hoped that, at some time in the future, the park may be further enlarged.

5. Werribee Gorge. The proposal for a national park based on the Werribee Gorge was outlined in the 1966-67 Annual Report. The area of 573 acres, approximately three miles upstream from Bacchus Marsh, has been permanently reserved under the Land Act since 1907, to preserve geological, volcanic, and glacial features. The problem of access is under investigation and will need to be resolved before the proposal can move forward.

6. Cape Everard. As mentioned in last year's report, Cape Everard on the East coast between Marlo and Wingan Inlet was examined by the Authority as a site for a national park and a proposal submitted to the Government for consideration.

COMMITTEES OF MANAGEMENT. The membership of the Committees of Management for the various national parks is set out in Appendix 1. THE NATIONAL PARKS. At the close of the year there were twenty-one national parks in Victoria, located as shown in Figure l. A brief statement on each of the parks follows.

1. . Committee of Management. There was no change in the membership during the year.

Visitor Statistics. During the year, the part-time Ranger recorded 8,600 visitors-over 2,000 more than for the previous year.

Park Activities. Roads and Tracks. The sealing of the road between the park entrance and the tourist area, a distance of 5! miles, was completed by the Country Roads Board.

Conservation. In March, 1969, Carey Grammar School pupils engaged in a park project involving painting, tree planting and fencing of a number of areas including some reserved for the regeneration of native pines.

Fire Protection. As stated under the heading of " Fire Protection " in this report, an area of 400 acres was burned at Wyperfeld. The fire, which occurred in December, 1968 near the tourist area, was caused by a lightning strike. Due to the prompt action of a group of boy scouts, who happened to be camping in the park at the time, the fire was contained and was subsequently extinguished by officers of the Forests Commission and local Country Fire Authority brigades.

Flora and Fauna. Two botanists, Mr. A. C. Beauglehole and Mr. E. Finck, who made a further plant survey of the park in October, 1968 discovered 127 species of plants, which had not previously been recorded for the park. With relief from last year's drought, bird and animal populations are regaining their former numbers. 6

Vice-Regal Visit. In March, 1969, His Excellency the Governor of Victoria, Sir Rohan Delacombe, and Lady Delacombe, honoured the park with a visit. The Karkarooc and Dimboola Shire Councils combined to add to the pleasure of the occasion by providing a delightful barbecue lunch and afternoon tea for his Excellency and Lady Delacombe and a considerable number of local citizens.

Condition of the Park. During the year 15·90 inches of rain were recorded in the Tourist Area, compared with 12·06 inches of the previous year. Rain fell during every month of the year and, as a result, the park is in excellent condition, with all water storages at a satisfactory level.

2. KINGLAKE NATIONAL PARK. Committee of Management. The Authority regretfully reports the deaths of Cr. D. J. Balharrie and Mr. W. F. Waters, and desires to record its appreciation of the services of these two members of the inaugural Committee, appointed in February, 1960. The late Cr. Balharrie had represented the Shire of Whittlesea since the Committee's inception, while the late Mr. Waters, a prominent member of the scouting movement and Melbourne Walking Club, was for a period Deputy-Chairman of the Committee. Cr. K. N. Balharrie and Mr. J. H. Cosstick, Forests Commission representative filled the resultant vacancies, while Mr. A. W. Shillinglaw continued to serve as Chairman.

Visitor Statistics. The following table comparing visitor numbers and fees for the last decade clearly shows the increasing popularity of the park.

1958-59. 1960-61. 1962-63. 1964--65. l96(H;7. 1967-

Number of Visitors ...... 16,000 21,000 35,000 44,700 63,000 71,600 97,457 Fees Paid (Dollars) ...... 825 1,574 2,068 2,088 3,519 4,617 6,455

Park Activities. Fire protection tracks were graded and maintained during the year. An additional eight chains of fire access tracks was also constructed. The usual maintenance was carried out on the seven miles of tourist tracks and roads and three miles of extentions along these tracks were also made. A half-mile " return walking track ", commencing from the picnic area, was constructed at Jehosaphat Gully. This follows one side of the gully, crosses the creek and after traversing the opposite face, returns to the picnic ground. A number of directional signs were repainted as part of the regular maintenance progamme.

Water Supply. The water supply system was improved by increasing the height of the dam wall on Mason's Creek and by the installation of a new 6 H.P. Wisconsin centrifugal pump with petrol engine which feeds a newly-installed 20,000-gallon concrete storage tank, used to supply Mason's Falls Picnic Area. In the same area a new picnic shelter has been built and the toilet systems improved. A cairn with plaque, erected to commemorate the services to the park of the late Professor W. A. Laver, first Chairman of the Committee of Management, was constructed near the Mason's Falls entrance. It is intended to unveil the plaque early in the forthcoming year. As foreshadowed in the previous Annual Report, a block of land has now been bought at Jehosaphat Gully for a Ranger's residence which, at the end of the year under review, was nearing completion. Two sets of fire-places were built in the picnic area.

Condition of the Park. The park is in good condition. 7

3. FERN TREE GULLY NATIONAL PARK. Committee of Management. During the year, Mr. E. P. Ronto, Assistant Engineer of the Shire of Sherbrooke, was appointed to the vacancy on the Committee caused by the retirement of Cr. G. Gilmore.

Visitor Statistics. At least 70,000 persons visited the park during the year. As usual, a number of school, church and social groups held annual picnics there.

Park Activities. Fire Protection. With the ·help of the Forests Commission employees, all fire access tracks were adequately maintained. It is pleasing to report that all fires in the park during the summer were quickly controlled, with the result that little damage was suffered by the park. The most significant one of five acres on 17th January, 1969 has already been mentioned elsewhere. During the year a steel cable-stayed footbridge of attractive design was erected opposite the kiosk, to provide access across the creek. Maintenance, including necessary repairs and painting, was carried out on shelter sheds, playground and picnic area equipment. In addition the Rangers carried out maintenance work on walking tracks. Comprehensive renovation was effected to the lookout tower on One Tree Hill, which was also repainted, while additional table and seat units were provided at appropriate places within the park.

Condition of the Park. Regeneration of vegetation following the fires in February, 1968 has been slow. It will take several years before the park recovers from the effects of this fire.

4. WILSON'S PROMONTORY NATIONAL PARK. Committee of Management. Membership has remained unchanged, with Mr. R. T. Seaton assuming the duties of Chairman in August, 1968 in place of Mr. J. McNally, who was obliged to retire as Chairman due to pressure of his official duties.

Visitor Statistics. The number of visitors to Wilson's Promontory for the year ended 30th June, 1969 is indicated in Tables 1 and 2 along with comparative figures for previous years. Revenues derived from park services and wages paid to park employees are listed in Table 3.

TABLE I.-VISITORS TO TIDAL RIVER.

Month. 1959-60. 1961-02. 1963-64. 1965-66. 1966-07. 1967-08, 1968-09.

July ...... 186 132 300 367 665 649 731 August ...... 618 701 1,250 1,115 1,732 1,146 2,070 September ...... 750 1,720 2,524 1,766 2,956 1,631 3,108 October ...... 789 1,614 1,967 2,624 3,575 3,415 2,176 November ...... 1,108 2,022 2,317 2,807 3,081 4,115 3,460 December ...... 5,869 10,378 11,288 11,903 12,175 11,827 12,708 January ...... 11,183 14,307 24,858 27,899 29,846 32,110 31,306 February ...... 1,924 2,556 3,201 3,623 5,346 5,497 4,432 March ...... 2,468 3,534 12,929 6,024 13,988 7,623 8,019 April ...... 3,863 7,871 3,574 9,556 1,584 12,263 10,413 May ...... 352 1,118 4,717 1,927 1,621 3,380 2,605 June ...... 427 1,148 2,171 2,010 1,913 1,002 2,668 Total for Year ...... 29,537 47,010 71,936 71,621 78,482 84,658 83,696

TABLE 2.-TOTAL VISITORS FOR CHRISTMAS-NEW YEAR AND EASTER PERIODS.

Period. 1959-00. 1961-02. 1963-64. 1965-66. 1966-07. ! 1967-08. 1968-09.

December } 24,585 36,086 January ...... 17,063 39,802 42,021 43,937 44,014

6,339 11,405 13,438 15,580 15,572 19,886 18,432 March} ...... (weather (weather (weather (weather (weather (weather (weather April poor) good) good) good) mainly poor) fine) good) 8

TABLE 3.-PARK REVENUE AND WAGES.

Year. Revenue from Park Services I (excluding N.P.A. Grants). Expenditure on Wages.

$ $ 1959-60 23,772 11,604 1961-62 46,570 18,954 1963-64 70,802 26,292 1965-66 78,589 34,564 1966-67 94,186 37,200 1967-68 95,299 44,178 1968-69 101,800 50,290

Though the number of visitors recorded was 960 less than for the previous year, park revenue increased by $5,500. This can be attributed to a small increase in the charge for lodges and partly to improved collection methods.

Fire Protection. No fires occurred within the park during the year under review, but two small fires which burnt out a total of 300 acres in the Yanakie Run area, at present outside the park's boundary, were quickly controlled through the joint efforts of the Country Fire Authority, Forests Commission officers and the park staff. Fire protection works include the construction of a two-mile extension to the Lighthouse Track, the clearing of a track to Oberon Bay, as well as rotary-slashing and protective burning along the "Five-Mile" Road on the northern part of the park.

Tourist Roads and Tracks. Sealing of a number of internal roads was effected by the Country Roads Board during the year. These include a section of the Promontory Road between Picnic Point and Whiskey Bay, and part of the road to Mount Oberon car park from the Tidal River turn-off.

Water Supply and Drainage. A Kinney filtration unit, designed to remove suspended matter from the water supply, was installed and a new Southern Cross diesel motor was fitted to the water pump to replace the obsolescent one. During the year, the Public Works Department commenced the staged implementation of a drainage plan for Tidal River Camping Area. It is hoped that, by December, 1970, the area containing the buildings and that part of the camping area which is adjacent to the campers' lounge will be finished. Plans for draining areas to the west and north-west of the campers' lounge, extending towards Norman Bay, are under consideration, but have not yet been finalised. Conservation. The establishment of lawns near Lorikeet Flats and the single men's quarters, the erection of fencing between the Ring Road and the river beach, and the planting of trees throughout the camp, were the major projects for the year.

Buildings. Two houses (C.H.L) were built during the year and are now occupied by members of the staff and their families.

Condition of the Park. The park is in good condition.

5. MoUNT BUFFALO NATIONAL PARK. Committee of Management. One of the senior members of the Committee, Mr. C. J. Pollock, died in April, 1969. He had served both as Chairman and member for many years, commencing in 1933, and the Authority here records its appreciation of the services rendered to the park by Mr. Pollock during this period.

Visitor Statistics. Inclusive of Chalet guests, overnight tourists and day-visitors, the number of visitors was estimated to be between 50,000 and 55,000. The prolonged 1968 snow season resulted in an increase in the number of visitors as compared with the attendance for the previous year. 9

Returns from the sale of Pomalift tickets amounted to $14,071.20 as compared with $8,033. 80 for the previous snow season. The number of campers (1,084) was also greater than for the previous year, when the total was 964. Correspondingly, camp fees collected rose from $634.80 in 1967-68 to $885.80 for 1968-69.

Park Activities. Roads and tracks were again given considerable maintenance and it is pleasing to report that the park had virtually a fire-free year.

Buildings. A contract was let for the enlargement and redesigning of the A. W. Keown Lodge and by the end of the year substantial progress had be made in the work.

Dingo Dell. An extra ski run was prepared and a new diesel engine installed to drive the Pomalift. As indicated previously, a small fire which burned out half an acre occurred in the Park on 12th December, 1968. The fire was quickly brought under control by the park staff.

Condition of the Park. The park is in good condition.

6. . Committee of Management. During the year Mr. J. P. Slater resigned as Forests Commission representative, due to his having been transferred to another district, and Mr. J. M. Morley, the succeeding District Forester, was appointed in his place. Mr. L. J. LeGrand, who had served the Committee for seven years, resigned because of business pressures. Staff Mr. F. C. W. Barton, part-time Ranger since 1968, resigned in April, 1969. Mr. Barton had had a long association with the park. He bad served as a member of the Committee of Management and honorary Ranger before the formation of the Authority. Mter that body was formed he was appointed on a regular basis as part-time Ranger, in which capacity he served for a further eleven years. His detailed knowledge of the flora and fauna of the park has been of great value to the Authority and the Committee of Management, and the Authority here records its indebtedness to Mr. Barton for his wide-ranging services over the years. Mr. R. D. Cook, M.B.E. was appointed Park Ranger on a full-time basis, in April, 1969. Park Activities. Fire Protection. Widening of firebreaks near the westC'rn boundary has added a very useful measure of protC'ction to the park.

Conservation. Repairs to the sea walls and groynes were made with the help of labour provided by Carey Grammar School pupils. Flora and Fauna. The Authority published a booklet on the " Flora of the Park ", prepared by the former Park Ranger, Mr. F. C. W. Barton, as an aid to those interested in such matters. As a result of the protection afforded by the Ranger, various animal species appear to be increasing-in particular kangaroos, wallabies, wombats and emus, while birdlife is prolific. Vermin Control. The destruction of rabbits in the Lakes National Park poses special problems, because of the nature of the park. The open spaces, formed as a result of the earlier management when large areas of the park were privately owned, provide green feed for both kangaroos and rabbits. It has been deemed inadvisable to use 1080 in open trails to poison rabbits, because of the danger to the wildlife. Special wire-nettingenclosures have been placed in appropriate areas and trails laid, leading rabbits to the enclosures which stand six inches clear of the ground, to enable the rabbits, but not the kangaroos or wallabies, to enter. Poison bait is laid only within the enclosures. The results have been moderately good, though the method is tedious. This method of rabbit destruction has been supplemented by fumigation of warrens and the spreading of myxomatosis. 10

Construction. During the year the jetty at Point Wilson in the " Banksia " area was lengthened by 70 feet, to accommodate large craft. Four picnic tables were installed in the day visitor area.

Condition of the Park. The park is in good condition.

7. . Conservation. The part-time Ranger's reports indicate that the vegetation in the areas scarred by bushfi.re in October, 1967 is regenerating satisfactorily.

Fire Protection and Access. The State Electricity Commission has cleared a strip of land along the northern boundary of the park for the purpose of erecting high voltage powerlines along the perimeter. The cleared area should be of considerable advantage in the way of access to the park and for fire protection purposes.

Condition of the Park. The park is in good condition.

8. . In the previous Annual Report reference was made to the offer to sell to the Crown, an adjacent area of 270 acres containing excellent examples of jungle vegetation, for addition to this park. The purchase was made possible by the donation of $500 each by six large Victorian companies and in the first instance through the energetic enthusiasm of Sir Maurice Mawby, C.B.E., Chairman of Directors of Conzinc Riotinto of Ltd., who organised the fund-raising. The Authority expresses its deep gratitude to all concerned. Legislation is now being prepared for the dedication of this land as a national park.

Conservation. The last two Annual Reports referred to the excellent conservation work done by the Country Roads Board and the Soil Conservation Authority to repair damage along the roadside caused by the heavy rain in June, 1966, particularly where Coolwater Creek crosses Princess Highway. It is pleasing to report that revegetation of road batters in this area and elsewhere within the park is continuing at a steady rate. The Governor's Bend area is now provided with toilets and picnic facilities erected by the Country Roads Board in January, 1968. These amenities are very well maintained by the Board's staff and are a real asset to the park.

Condition of the Park. The park is in good condition.

9. WINGAN INLET NATIONAL PARK. Many campers continue to visit this park despite the paucity of amenities and poor access. However, during the year the Forests Commission has extended the logging track leading to the national park, leaving five miles of the access track still unformed.

Supervision of Visitors. The part-time Ranger continues to supervise and maintain the camping area, but increasing tourist pressures are adding to his difficulties.

Fauna. Among the spieces of birds seen by the Ranger on the Skerries where they have been breeding are : Sooty Oystercatchers, Silver Gulls, Caspian Terns and Crested Terns.

Condition of the Park. The park is in good condition. 11

10. MALLACOOTA INLET NATIONAL PARK. Committee of Management. During the year concerned, Mr. H. L. Souter was appointed to the Committee of Management as a member representing local interests and Councillor B. Osborne also joined the Committee as the nominee of the Shire Council.

Visitor Statistics. It is estimated that the park had at least 11,000 visitors during the year under review.

Park Activities. Fire Protection. Fuel hazard reduction and controls were carried out in several areas. It is gratifying to report that only two out-breaks, both small, were reported and these were easily brought under control.

Roads and Tracks. All access and walking tracks were adequately maintained. Rotary slashing was carried out on access tracks in the eastern region.

Equipment. The 20-ft. fibre-glass patrol boat was fitted with twin 100 H.P. outboard motors, as a safety measure.

Communication. This has been considerably improved with the installation of an A.W.A. 60B transceiver in the patrol boat and the erection of a more efficient aerial at the Ranger's residence.

Condition of the Park. The park is in good condition.

11. TARRA VALLEY NATIONAL PARK. Committee of Manaf(ement. Following their retirement as Councillors in the Shire of Alberton, Messrs. Barry, Graham, Irving and Sweeney were replaced by their successors, Councillors James, Moore, Harvey and Gooding.

Visitor Statistics. Some 27,500 tourists visited the park during the year. Parking fees amounted to $409 compared with $450 for the previous year.

Park Activities. Car-parking Facilities. The long-standing problem of haphazard parking has been overcome by paving the parking area and dividing it up into clearly marked parking bays with proper access and exit avenues.

Fire Protection. The stock of fire-fighting equipment was supplemented and walking tracks which had been damaged by two heavy snow-falls have been resurfaced.

Condition of the Park. The park is in good condition, despite the fact that some of the tree-ferns were damaged by the snow-falls. 12

12. BULGA NATIONAL PARK. Committee of Management. Membership of the Committee remains the same as for the Tarra Valley National Park.

Visitor Statistics. Some 27,500 persons visited the park during the year under review. Parking fees amounted to $269 as compared with $228 in the previous year.

Park Activities. Water Supply. Planning is still proceeding with a view to providing a more reliable and increased water supply for visitor facilities.

Tourists' Visit. A day tour of Bulga Park and Tarra Valley was arranged by the Victorian Government Tourist Bureau in February, 1969.

Condition of the Park. The park generally is in good condition, but certain walking tracks are urgently in need of attention.

13. . Committee of Management. There was one change in membership due to the death of Mr. R. W. McKellar, O.B.E., J.P., who died at the end of the year under review. Mr. McKellar had had a long association with the park commencing in 1937. He had served as Honorary Secretary since 1947. The Authority gratefully records its appreciation of Mr. McKellar's valuable service to the park. Since the death of Mr. McKellar, Mr. W. G. Wright has been Acting Secretary.

Visitor Statistics. Public interest in the park continues to grow. The Ranger's records show that some 23,700 persons picnicked within the park during the year. In the twelve months period ending 30th June, 1969, a research group from Monash University and the Australian Road Research Board commenced a "destination survey". A " pilot run " revealed that many visitors to the park came from Melbourne's northern suburbs, indicating the value of this park as an " outdoor passive recreation " area.

Park Activities. Fire Protection. The previous report referred to the 60-ft. wide firebreak along the northern and eastern perimeters. This year the stacks of dead timber and debris resulting therefrom were burnt. Fire tracks and picnic areas were also groomed. The Authority is pleased to report that no bushfires occurred in the park during the year.

Vandalism. In the previous report the Authority referred to the need to close the park from sunset to sunrise, because of rubbish dumping and other forms of vandalism. This was done early in the year under review. The result was dramatic. No further rubbish dumping has occurred and only three instances of vandalism (by way of breaking into the park at night) have been recorded.

Buildings. By 30th June, 1969, the combined picnic shelter-barbecue building had almost been completed.

Dogs and Cats. The Act requires that dogs and cats be excluded from national parks and it has always been the Authority's policy to see that this requirement was observed. However, there has been a growing tendency for visitors to attempt to ignore this regulation which, incidentally, is strictly enforced in all other national parks. The Ranger has taken steps to bring the situation under control.

Condition of the Park. The park is in good condition. 13

14. FRASER NATIONAL PARK. Committee of Management. Membership of the Committee of Management remained unchanged from the previous year.

Visitor Statistics. Information tabled showing visitors over the last five years to Fraser National Park and the adjoining Eildon Water Reserve strikingly reveals the growth of public interest.

i - 1964-65. !965-66. !966~7. 1967~8. !968~9.

Campers ...... 3,608 4,148 7,618 3,100 4,898 Camps ...... 964 1,188 1,874 924 1,341 Day Visitors ...... 7,095 10,088 11,140 11,637 17,528 Cars ...... 1,877 2,758 3,040 2,862 4,219 Boats ...... 809 1,065 1,257 N.R. 1,162 Caravans ...... 63 124 249 86 289 Park Revenue ...... $844 $2,303 $4,696 $5,033 $7,250

During the year under review the water level in Lake Eildon was significantly higher than during the previous drought year, thus providing improved conditions for water sports ; also, improved road conditions made access from Melbourne easier.

Park Activities. Roads and Tracks. Specifically, road improvements included completing the widening and sealing the last three miles of road from Alexandra to Haines Saddle. A new nature trail at Candlebark Gully has proved popular with visitors and an attractive brochure describing points of interest along the trail was prepared by the Authority during the year.

Conservation. Natural regeneration of native trees is proceeding steadily in all sections of the park. Additional native eucalypts and wattle trees were planted in the Coller Bay area.

Vermin and Noxious Weeds Control. Poison bait spread by aerial drop over 1,200 acres, together with the employment of a full­ time rabbiter, was successful in destroying rabbits, without producing significant casualites among the native fauna. Lands Department officers also continued their programme on the control of noxious weeds. Because of the special problems of this park, in regard to noxious weeds and vermin, the Authority has recruited an employee who is engaged exclusively on such duties, under the direction of the Ranger.

Flora and Fauna. Wildflowers have been much in evidence and kangaroos have frequently been seen. New bird sightings for the park were the Rufous Fantail, the White-breasted Sea Eagle and the Australian Gannet.

Buildings. The third amenities block (near Candlebark Gully) had almost been completed by 30th June, 1969. The open-air theatre, built this year and located below th Range. 's residence, is well supplied with seats madl' from large tree trunks recovered from Lake Eildon. The facilities include a screen, projector and amplification system. A series of lectures on natural history aspects of the parks, which were given during the Christmas /New Year season, proved to be very popular with park visitors.

Condition of the Park. The park is in good condition and has fully recovered from the dry conditions of the previous year. 14

15. HATTAH LAKES NATIONAL PARK Visitor Statistics. The number of visitors recorded exceeded 7,900. This figure was slightly less than that for 1967-68. The continued absence of water in the Lakes and the maintenance of drought conditions resulting from the erratic incidence of annual rainfall (7-!- inches of the 12.80 inches) recorded for the year fell between 8th February and 4th April, 1969 have contributed to these depressed figures.

Park Activities. Water Supply. The success of Hattah Lakes National Park as such depends very largely on having a regular supply of water in Lake Hattah. The lake is filled at irregular intervals as a result of a sustained high flow of water in the Murray River which, at such times, feeds the Chalka Creek. This in turn feeds the Hattah Lakes system which, however, has now been dry for several years. In former years, these Lakes provided excellent habitat for water birds in which to live and breed and the spectacle of the large numbers of such birds swimming in the lakes was a major tourist attraction. Lake Hattah was also a source of water for the township of Hattah and nearby farmers for stock purposes. During the past year, the Authority has been collaborating with the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission, the Forests Commission and local (Hattah) residents, as well as other interested bodies such as the Mildura Shire Council and the Murray Valley Development League with the object of devising a plan to ensure that supplies of water from the Murray River could be directed via the Chalka Creek to Lake Hattah and other lakes. The investigations by the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission are proceeding and it is hoped that ultimately a feasible plan will be developed. If a regular supply of water could be maintained in Lake Hattah, it would be possible for appropriate facilities to be provided for visitors to the park and, at the same time, to assist local (Hattah) farmers and industries. Naturally with an assured habitat, the water birds and land birds would become established in the park once again. The Authority is pursuing the matter vigorously.

Buildings. During the year the Assistant Ranger's house was completed. Hitherto, since his appointment in 1965, he had been living in a caravan.

Conservation. The campaign against vermin-particularly rabbits-is being energetically maintained to such an extent that, despite adverse conditions, the regeneration plots of Murray Pine and Desert Jasmine are showing encouraging growth.

Flora and Fauna. The Authority, in conjunction with the Sunraysia Field Naturalists' Club, issued an illustrated brochure entitled-" Trees of Hattah Lakes National Park ". In August, 1968 the Authority also produced a Bird List for the Park.

Educational Excursions. Parties of students from Mount Scopus College and Red Cliffs High School visited the park, as did members of the Broken Hill and Sunraysia Field Naturalists' Clubs.

Condition of the Park. While the lakes remain dry the park will not be in good condition.

16. MoUNT RICHMOND NATIONAL PARK. Committee of Management. During 1968-69 the two changes in membership were occasioned by the transfer of the Forests Commission representative (Mr. K. Morrison) and Lands Department representative (Mr. I. W. Cook) who was tr~nsferred in February, 1967 to an?ther distric~. Their successors in office, Messrs. S. E. Ryan, Dip. For. (Cres.) and Mr. L. J. Harnson, respectively, replaced them on the Committee. Mr. H. L. Cain, a resident of Portland, was appointed Secretary. 15

Visitor Statistics. It is estimated there has been some slight increase in the numbers of persons visiting the park over the previous year, when 1,000 visitors were recorded by the part-time Ranger.

Park Activities. During the period under review, walking tracks were extensively groomed, signposts were erected and an area around the summit of Mount Richmond was rotary-slashed. A firebreak was also constructed around the new area of 500 acres. A we11 was sunk with a view to supplying water to the picnic area in the near future. Fire. As indicated on page 4 of this report a small fire occurred in the park on lOth December, 1968, burning an area of 40 acres. Forests Commission officers extinguished the fire which is thought to have been deliberately lit.

Buildings. During the year a 25-ft. high steel lookout tower was constructed on the summit of Mount Richmond. It has been named the Noel Learmonth Lookout Tower to honour the well-known naturalist and author of that name who had played such an important role in having the national park created and who had served as the first Chairman of the Committee of Management. To mark the occasion, a considerable number of people, including representatives of the Portland Shire and Town Councils, Field Naturalists Clubs, Portland Historical Society leaders and other leading citizens, attended the opening ceremony on 18th May. The gathering was addressed by local members of Parliament, Mr. D. K. McKellar, M.P. and Mr. W. J. Lewis, M.P. and by the Mayor of Portland, Cr. R. H. Halliday, J.P., and the Portland Shire President, Cr. M. M. Aylmer, J.P. The opening ceremony was performed by the Director of National Parks, Dr. L. H. Smith. Mr. Learmonth's reponse was the highlight of the ceremony.

Condition of the Park. The park is in excellent condition.

17. MOUNT ECCLES NATIONAL PARK. Committee of Management. During the year under review, two changes occurred in membership. The Forests Conunission representative, Mr. K. Morrison, who was transferred, was replaced by the new District Forester, Mr. S. E. Ryan, while the new Engineer for the Shire of Minhamite, Mr. L. Alien, replaced his predecessor, Mr. G. 0. Ritchie. Mr. G. Stephens, a member of some years' standing, accepted the duties of Secretary vice Mr. Morrison.

Visitor Statistics. The table below reveals continuing public interest in the park and the figures therein can be regarded as conservative, since they are derived from counts by the Ranger when on week-end duty.

Year. i Cars. Persons.

1962-63 .. 1,487 5,385 1963-64 .. 1,704 6,677 1964-65 .• 1,696 7,300 1965--()6 .. 1,715 7,304 1966--()7 .. 1,540 7,006 1967-68 .. 1,503 6,644 1968-69 .. 1,714 6,515

Park Activities. Considerable work was done on access tracks and picnic area extensions, but no major works were undertaken.

Condition of the Park. The level of Lake Surprise remains satisfactory and the lake continues to be an attraction to tourists. The park is in good condition. 16

18. GLENALADALE NATIONAL PARK. Visitor Statistics. The part-time Ranger has recorded almost 4,500 visitors to the park-an increase of approximately 1,000 persons over the number for the previous year.

Park Activities. Roads and Tracks. A new well-graded walking track has been constructed to the Den of Nargun.

Vermin. The Ranger has continued his energetic afforts to clear the park of foxes and feral cats.

Flora. With the advent of substantial rains received between December, 1968 and April, 1969, a considerable impetus has been given to the regeneration of native plants.

Proposed Reservoir. As mentioned in the previous Annual Report, there is a firm proposal by the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission to construct a new dam in close proximity to the park boundary. Latest information is to the effect that the dam wall is likely to be erected a short distance north of the park's northern boundary. The Authority will continue to maintain close liaison with the Commission in a joint effort to preserve the park ecology.

Visitor Amenities. During the year under review two picnic tables and seats were installed for the benefit of visitors to the park.

Condition of the Park. The park generally is in good condition, although it has not yet fully recovered from the severe damage suffered in the fire of February, 1965.

19. PORT CAMPBELL NATIONAL PARK. Visitor Statistics. There were approximately 18,000 visitors to the park during the year. This number exceeded the figure for the previous year by 2,000. Tourist fees for 1968-69 totalled $4,779 as compared with $4,302.10 for the previous year.

Park Activities. Camping Area. The improvement programme referred to in the previous Annual Report was continued by way of further tree-planting, the gravelling of tracks, raising the level of further camp sites and the planting of tough grass thereon.

Tracks and Conservation. With the aid of casual labour and on the advice of the Soil Conservation Authority, heayy stone was laid in the Crown of Thorns and London Bridge areas, under the supervision of the Ranger, to mitigate the effect of erosion, while drainage pipes were laid in the " Blow Hole " region for the same purpose. The various tracks were also groomed.

Ranger's Residence. The house for the Ranger was completed during the period under review. He had previously been living in a rented house.

Tourist Amenities. In order to cope with the problem oflitter, thirty-six refuse containers were installed throughout the park during the year. These and all other tourist amenities were well maintained by the Ranger.

Notices. During the year, a number of signs and notices were erected at selected coastal features and in the camping area to assist park visitors.

Condition of the Park. The park is in good condition. 17

20. . No development occurred in this park during the year.

Condition of the Park. The park is in good condition.

21. LITTLE DESERT NATIONAL PARK. Dedication. As mentioned under" Legislation", this park of 2,870 acres was dedicated in December, 1968. It had previously been reserved under the Land Act 1958 as a site for a national park, the National Parks Authority having been appointed Committee of Management. A full-tiine Ranger who had a long association with the park was appointed in February, 1967.

Park Activities. Interpretation and Publicity. During this year a nature trail was established. A pamphlet has also been prepared by the Authority providing an introduction to the wildlife of the area.

Fire. On 19th February, 1969, a " lightning strike " occurred in the park ; but, fortunately, only a very small area was burnt before the fire was extinguished by two local residents.

Fauna. Although the drought broke during the year, the Mallee Fowl had difficulty in finding food, because the acacia trees produced very little seed which is their staple diet. A number of migratory birds were recorded in the park in October, 1968, including the Cockatiel, Budgerygah, White-winged Triller, Crimson Chat and Pied Honeyeater.

Condition of the Park. The park is in good condition.

PROPOSED DEVELOPMENTS. As in previous years, through regular consultations between the Authority and the various Committees of Management, development programmes for the individual national parks for the forthcoming financial year were prepared and are set out in Appendix 5.

FINANCE. Treasury allocations to the National Parks Fund for the year under review were $97,500 from Consolidated Revenue and $218,000 from Loan Fund. In addition, the Government made a special grant of $100,000 available to the Country Roads Board for use on roads within and leading to national parks in accordance with a programme of works prepared by the Board and Authority in consultation. Special grants totalling $1,426 were made to the Authority for the following purposes:- (a) $1,183 Purchase of land for future inclusion in the Fern Tree Gully National Park. (b) $243 " Drought Relief" expenditure in national parks. Appendix 2 shows the moneys paid into the National Parks Fund and the disbursement thereof. Appendix 3 shows the purpose to which moneys for maintenance and improvements were applied. Appendix 4 embodies, in columnar form, the Statement of Receipts and Expenditure for the respective national parks. Appendix 5 shows the Proposed Works Programme for 1969-70. In previous reports reference has been made to the difficulty of providing the necessary services from the finance available. In 1968-69, maintenance and Ranger Service costs absorbed approximately 40% of the contributions from Loan Fund. Despite this, the Authority was still able to make some noteworthy additions and improvements to park facilities, viz :- $ Picnic Shelter at Churchill National Park 4,500 Suspension Bridge at Fern Tree Gully National Park .. 5,664 Residence at Kinglake National Park 13,265 Additions and Alterations to A. W. Keown Lodge at Mount Buffalo National Park 60,818 Incinerator at Wilson's Promontory National Park 20,764 Two Residences at Wilson's Promontory National Park 25,295 Fire Protection Works in Thirteen National Parks 19,044 3857/71-2. 18

Nevertheless, the demands on the Authority to add to and improve the various park facilities are becoming increasingly urgent as the public becomes more aware of the services provided by the national parks. The costs of maintaining a park and providing a Ranger Service are ever-increasing and, even now, the Authority is able to provide only a minimal service in some parks. However, the time is fast approaching when public demands will necessitate a full-time Ranger Service and adequate facilities in these parks. To do this and at the same time develop other parks in accordance with pre-determined plans, additional finance will be necessary. The Authority is aware of the many demands made upon the Government for financial support and is always grateful for what it has received over the years. However, the Authority feels bound to bring to the notice of the Government the inexorable demands of society upon the national park service and the fact that it cannot adequately fulfil its obligations under the Act without the necessary finance. The Authority hopes that the Government may be able to devise a way of extending the financial support already given.

CONCLUSION. This report presents a statement of moneys provided by the Government and details of the works and maintenance on which such moneys, along with revenue derived from park services, were expended. In addition, information is given on visitor statistics and other matters related to the mangement of the national parks. While development has undoubtedly been limited by the shortage of staff and finance, it is felt nevertheless that progress has been made. Reference has been made in the reports of previous years to plans to meet the problems posed by such matters as garbage disposal (especially at Wilson's Promontory), the need for improved facilities at Mount Buffalo National Park and the need for additional staff accommodation at Wilson's Promontory and Kinglake National Parks. It is pleasing to be able to record the fact that these plans have materialized during the year under review. Reference has been made to these and certain other principal items under the heading of " Finance ". However, the provision of these very necessary services has imposed a severe strain on the Authority's finances and has rendered it imperative to defer other important works of protection and development in other parks. In the report for the previous year, reference was made, as it was in the report for the year before, to the need for additional trained scientific personnel, but no additions to scientific staff were made during the year under review. It will be appreciated that, with the passing of every year, the burden on the existing staff grows and the ability to provide the service which the Authority deems essential diminishes. Whilst appreciating the problems of the Government in meeting the increasing demands of a society which is becoming more and more sophisticated, the Authority feels bound to bring to the Government's notice the fact that the National Parks Service is an essential and integral part of this social and economic structure. The Authority needs to be strengthened in regard to staff and finance, if it is to fulfil its obligations under the Act, and hopes that the Government may be able to extend the assistance given in previous years.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS. The Authority gratefully acknowledges the assistance it has received throughout the year under review from other Government Departments, Committees of Management and other organizations. With continued support from these sources, the Authority will strive to develop and improve the National Parks Service in Victoria. J. W. MANSON, Chairman. J. H. ALDRED, Deputy Chairman. L. H. SMITH, Director. A. J. HOLT. A. 0. P. LAWRENCE. R. G. DOWNES. A. DUNBAVIN BUTCHER. DEWAR W. GOODE. G. M. PIZZEY. E. H. R. BURT. T. B. WILSON. J. T. McDONALD, Secretary, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne, 3002. 19

APPENDIX 1.

COMMITTEES OF MANAGEMENT AS AT 30TH JUNE, 1969.

WYPERFELD NATIONAL PARK. Chairman and Treasurer . . H. E. Tarr. R. P. Falla. J. Ros Garnet. J. M. Landy, B.Agr.Sc. I. 0. Maroske, B.Sc., B.Ed. W. G. D. Middleton, Dip.For. (Cres.), Forests Commission.

KINGLAKE NATIONAL PARK.

Chairman A. W. Shillinglaw, B.Sc., Dip.For. (Vie.). A. C. T. Hewitt, M.Agr.Sc., Agriculture Department (Deputy Chairman). D. H. Ashton, Ph.D., University of Melbourne. Cr. K. N. Balharrie. J. H. Cosstick, Dip.For. (Vie.), Forests Commission. W. R. Harris, Lands Department. L. K. Lawry. F. W. Nankervis, Shire of Eltham. Cr. S. Owen. Secretary K. Douglass, Forests Commission.

FERN TREE GULLY NATIONAL PARK.

Chairman A. C. Tye, J.P. V. W. Page, J.P. (Deputy Chairman). The Honorable W. A. Borthwick, M.P. The Honorable G. L. Chandler, C.M.G., M.L.C. D. P. Maguire. A. L. Peverill, Lands Department. E. P. Ronto, Shire of Sherbrooke. J. C. Westcott, Dip.For. (Cres.), Forests Commission. Secretary Mrs. M. Chesterfield.

WILSON'S PROMONTORY NATIONAL PARK.

Chairman R. T. Seaton, Dip.For. (Vie.), Forests Commission. R. P. Cooper, F.N.I.A. (Deputy Chairman). C. W. Brazenor. H. W. Brandy, Tourist Development Authority. J. K. Dempster, B.Sc., Fisheries and Wildlife Department. K. G. Hardcastle, A.R.A.I.A. L. Mercer. Cr. J. H. McDonald, Shire of South Gippsland. J. McNally, M.Sc., National Museum. Secretary G. Chandler, National Parks Authority.

MoUNT BUFFALO NATIONAL PARK. The Honorable I. A. Swinbume, M.L.C. C. W. Elsey, Dip.For. (Vie.), Forests Commission. T. M. Glazebrook, E.D., F.M.T.C., C.E., C.T.P.C. (N.S.W.), A.M.I.E. (Aust.), Country Roads Board. R. E. Jackson, B.C.E., A.M.I.E. (Aust.), Public Works Department. F. P. Kennedy, Railways Department. R. M. Rollason. Secretary N. E. Wright, Lands Department.

THE LAKES NATIONAL PARK.

Chairman B. M. Nicholson, B.Agr.Sc., Soil Conservation Authority. N. M. Elliott, B.Agr.Sc., Agriculture Department. D. A. Gilsenan. J. Glover. A. V. McDonald. J. M. Morley, Dip.For. (Cres.), Forests Commission. K. J. Street, Fisheries and Wildlife Department. Honorary Secretary and E. V. Barton. Treasurer 20

APPENDIX 1--pontinued.

CoMMlTIEES OF MANAGEMENT AS AT 30TH JUNE, 1969-continued.

MALL.f\COOTA INLET NATIONAL PARK.

Chairman W. R. Mann, J.P. R. G. Taylor (Deputy Chairman). W. R. Corrie. Cr. B. Osborne. H. R. Parke, Dip.For. (Vie.), Forests Commission. L. N. Robinson. H. L. Souter. N. A. Wakefield, B.Sc. G. W. A. Whitham, Fisheries and Wildlife Department. Secretary M. L. Hevern, National Parks Authority.

TARRA VALLEY AND BULGA NATIONAL PARKS. Cr. G. D. Gooding Cr. R. M. Harvey Cr. G. W. James Cr. K. D. Kay Cr. A. McDonald Shire of Alberton. Cr. G. A. Maxwell Cr. W. J. Moore Cr. J. P. O'Connor A. K. Sheldon, B.Sc. (For.), Forests Commission. Cr. S. B. Walpole, Shire of Alberton. Secretary A. W. Curry, F.I.M.A., J.P.

CHURCHILL NATIONAL PARK.

Chairman The Honorable G. L. Chandler, C.M.G., M.L.C. K. A. McAIIister, Lands Department. D. M. Pollock, J.P. Cr. A. C. Robinson, J.P., Shire of Berwick. Cr. B. M. Seebeck, City of Knox. A. E. Temple, M.M. J. C. Westcott, Dip.For. (Cres.), Forests Commission. W. G. Wright, A.M.I.E., Dandenong City Council. Honorary Secretary R. W. McKellar, Q.B.E., J.P.

FRASER NATIONAL PARK. Chairman H. C. FitzRoy, J.P. N. Cole, Jnr. (Deputy Chairman). W. S. Brake, B.C.E. (Melb.), C.T.P. and C. (N.S.W.), A.M.I.E. (Aust.), Country Roads Board. Cr. L. H. Coller, Shire of Alexandra. L. G. Cumming. K. Jerome, Dip.For. (Cres.), Forests Commission. J. O'Connor, State Rivers and Water Supply Commission. J. C. F. Wharton, B.Sc., Fisheries and Wildlife Department. M. S. Wood, D.D.A., M.A.I.A.S., Soil Conservation Authority. Secretary J. Counihan, National Parks Authority.

MoUNT RlCHMOND NATIONAL PARK.

Cbairman R. K. Blacker. Cr. A. V. Antony, Shire of Portland. A. C. Beauglehole. A. F. Davies. E. J. Harrison, Lands Department. Dr. J. LeM. Kneebone, Town of Portland. S. E. Ryan, Dip.For. (Cres.), Forests Commission. N. N. Wade, Secretary H. L. Cain.

MOUNT ECCLES NATIONAL PARK.

Chairman Cr. P. A. Paton. L. Alien, C.E., A.M.I.E. (Aust.), Shire Engineer, Shire of Minhamite. A. R. Archer, Lands Department. · N. 0. Coller. R. R. Fleetwood. S. E. Ryan, Dip.For. (Cres.). Secretary G. Stephens. 21

APPENDIX 2.

NATIONAL PARKS FUND.

STATEMENT OF RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURE FOR TIIE YEAR ENDED 30TH JUNE, 1969,

Receipts. $ $ Expenditure. $ $ Balance as at 1st July, 1968 40,138 Administrative Expenses- Contribution from Revenue-Division 8/3-3 97,500 Salaries and Overtime 68,115 Contribution from Loan Fund 218,000 General Expenses 30,359 Special Grants 1,426 Expenses of Committee Members .. 2,164 100,938 Other Receipts- Maintenance and Improvements to Port Campbell National Park 4,779 National Parks 314,781 Recoupment and Refunds .. 40,720 Rentals 5,806 Donation for land purchase-Alfred National Park .. 3,000 Contribution by Department of Shipping and Transport for lighthouse track in Wilson's Promontory National Park 5,000 Agistment Fees-Yanakie 442 Miscellaneous 508 60,255 Balance as at 30th June, 1969 1,600 --- 417,319 417,319

APPENDIX 3.

EXPENDITURE FROM THE NATIONAL PARKS FUND ON EACH NATIONAL PARK FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30TH JUNE, 1969.

Alfred National Park- $ $ Maintenance 54 Land Purchase 6,496 6,550 Bulga National Park- Maintenance (including Ranger Service) 2,130 Miscellaneous 68 2,198 Churchill National Park- Maintenance (including Ranger Service) 3,677 Fire Protection ...... 513 Roads, Tracks and Conservation 67 Camping and Picnic Area 41 Vehicle Allowance 400 Picnic Shelter 4,500 Vehicle Purchase 1,861 Miscellaneous 48 11,107 National Park- Ranger Service 3,579 Fern Tree Gully National Park- Maintenance (including Ranger Service) 11,163 Fire Protection ...... 2,193 Roads, Tracks and Conservation 183 Blackberry Control .. 310 Water Supply and Drainage .. 293 Repairs-Ranger's Residence 330 Kiosk-Stock and Renovations 1,458 Master Planning 804 Land Purchase 1,247 Suspension Bridge-Construction 5,664 Tools and Equipment 91 Miscellaneous 318 24,054 Fraser National Park- Maintenance (including Ranger Service) 8,392 Vehicle Repairs, Running and Maintenance 400 Fire Protection and Radio Equipment 1,708 Roads, Tracks and Conservation .. 812 Camping Area 116 Water Supply . . . . 382 Toilet Block, No. 4-Final Payment 241 Open Air Theatre .. 713 Fencing 187 Nature Trail 91 Machinery and Equipment 271 Vehicle-Replacement 1,462 Miscellaneous 127 --- 14,902 22

APPENDIX 3-continued.

EXPENDITURE FROM NATIONAL PARKS FUND ON EACH NATIONAL PARK 1968-69-continued. Glenaladale National Park- s s Maintenance (including Ranger Service) 1,307 Tracks and Conservation 2 Picnic Tables 96 Miscellaneous 37 1,442 Hattah Lakes National Park- Maintenance (including Ranger Service) 7,251 Fire Protection 25 Water Supply and Sewerage .. 655 Vermin and Noxious Weed Control .. 17 Regeneration Plots .. 186 Fencing 33 Quarters-Final Payment and Furnishings 889

Equipment 0 0 99 Miscellaneous 147 9,302 Kinglake National Park- Maintenance {including Ranger Service) 6,379 Fire Protection 225 Tracks and Conservation 723 Water Supply 77

Toilet Block-Mason's Falls . 0 50 Picnic Areas 650 Land .Purchase-Jehosaphat Gully 900 Ranger's Residence 13,265 Miscellaneous " 94 22,363 The Lakes National Park- Maintenance (including Ranger Service) 2,475 Fire Protection 261 Tracks and Conservation 132 Picnic Tables 192 Miscellaneous 56 3,116 Lind National Park- Maintenance 25

Little Desert National Park- Maintenance (including Ranger Service) 3,879 Roads, Tracks and Conservation 11 Signs 50 Miscellaneous 43 3,983 Mallacoota Inlet National Park- Maintenance 1,229 Fire Protection 2,187 Roads, Tracks and Conservation 150 Vehicle-Replacement 202 Brochure 2,551 Boat-Alterations aO:d Additions 2,676 Miscellaneous 100 9,095 Mount Buffalo National Park- Maintenance (including Ranger Service) 9,100 Fire Protection 1,560 Roads, Tracks and Conservation 1,420 Cresta Works 2,575 Dingo Dell Ski Runs 1,551 Snow Clearing 246 Survey 164 Pomalift-Final Payment 938 Extensions-A. Wo K.eown Lodge 60,818 Miscellaneous 184 78,556 Mount Eccles National Park- Maintenance (including Ranger Service) 2,275

Fire Protection 0. 1,441 Roads; Tracks and Conservation 79 Miscellaneous 32 3,827

Mount Richmond National Park- Maintenance (including Ranger Service) 1,314 Fire Protection 193 Roads, Tracks and Conservation 59 Water Supply 192 Picnic Area 76 Lookout Tower-Construction 4,138 Miscellaneous 29 6,001 23

APPENDIX 3-continued.

ExPENDITURE FROM NATIONAL PARKS FUND ON EACH NATIONAL PARK 1968-69-continued.

Port Camphell National Park­ $ ~ Maintenance (including Ranger Service) 7,657 Tracks and Conservation 417 Camping Area 1,393 Water Supply 289 Fencing 260 Notices 203 Parking Area 10 Flora Survey 90 Ranger's Residence 417 Tools and Equipment 91 Miscellaneous 97 10,924

Tarra Valley National Park~ Maintenance (including Ranger Service) 1,581 Rubbish Removal 80 Miscellaneous 19 1,681

Wilson's Promontory National Park­ Maintenance (including Ranger Service) 6,378 Fire Protection 12,277 Camp Development .. 804 Sealer's Cove Track 1,340 Research 40 Survey-Cafe and Store 89 Rental-Cafe and Store 2,716• Drainage 4,835 Motor Cycle-Replacement and Repairs 286 Incinerator-Construction 20,764 Staff Residences 25,295 Loan 9,814 Miscellaneous 390 85,021

Wilson's Promontory National Park-Yanakie Area­ Ranger Service 841 Miscellaneous 30 871

Wingan Inlet National Park­ Maintenance 202 Fire Protection 300 Toilet Block 16 518

Wyperfeld National Park- Maintenance (including Ranger Service) 4,283 Fire Protection 1,186 Tracks and Conservation 18 Water Supply 18 Regeneration Plots 180 Fencing 49 Flora Survey 551 Miscellaneous 63 6,348

General Expenditure­ Notices 1,064 Survey 78 Ranger Training 41 Government Fire Pool Insurance 1,855 Publicity 1,817 Technical Equipment 348 Trailer 455 Technical Services 2,853 Secretarial Services 279 Fire Protection 522 9,312

Total Expenditure 314,781

•This amount was received into the National Parks Fund from the tenants of the Cafe and General Store at Tidal River. It was subsequently paid to the Wilson's Promontory National Park Committee of Management. APPENDIX 4.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS FOR THE VARIOUS NATIONAL PARKS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30TH JUNE, 1969.

I Receipts. Expenditure.

I National Park Committee of Management. Excess of Excess of Other Authority Parking Camping Rentals. Sale of Other Payments Total. Wages. General Improve- Receipts Total. Grants. Fees. Fees. L.P. Gas. Grants. Receipts. over Expenses. ments. over Receipts. I Payments.

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ I. Alfred* ...... 6,550 ...... 6,550 t 54 6,496 . . 6,550 2. Bulga ...... 2,178 269 ...... 200 .. . . 2,647 2,483 164 . . 2,647 3. Churchill .. .. 9,246 ...... 13 . . 9,259 3,513 1,922 1,127 2,697 9,259 4. Fern Tree Gully ...... 18,391 271 . . 284 18,946 9,268 2,379 6,803 496 18,946 5. Fraser ...... 2,646 1,358 4,907 .. 513 .. 472 ll,096 20,992 2,74l:j: 3,723 14,528 . . 20,992 6. Glenaladale* ...... 1,442 ...... 1,442 1,238 108 96 . . 1,442 ~ 7. Hattah Lakes* ...... 9,302 ...... 9,302 6,034 1,538 1,730 . . 9,302 8. Kinglake ...... 12,683 6,455 . . 194 .. .. 344 1,746 21,422 9,362 2,263 9,797 . . 21,422 9. The Lakes ...... 3,090 ...... 9 305 3,404 2,054 682 668 . . 3,404 10. Lind* ...... 25 ...... 25 t 25 .. . . 25 11. Little Desert* .. .. 3,983 ...... 3,983 3,358 625 3,983 12. Mallacoota Inlet ...... 8,190 .. . . 253 8,443 t 7,216 416 8ll 8,443 13. Mount Buffalo ...... 9,200 . . 886 483 134 .. 12,549§ 613 23,865 10,906 4,410 8,549 . . 23,865 14. Mount Eccles . . .. 3,378 ...... 170 121 3,669 2,238 309 1,122 3,669 15. Mount Richmond .. .. 5,414 ...... 216 . . 5,630 1,205 408 3,764 253 5,630 16. Port Campbell* ...... 6,145 3,738 . . 478 563 . . 10,924 4,286 3,948 2,690 . . 10,924 17. Tarra Valley ...... 1,600 409 .. 200 .. 2,209 2,149 60 . . . . 2,209 18. Wilson's Promontory .. .. ll,135 3,784 42,808 52,233 4,982 .. 45,123 13,884 173,949 52,444 60,917 60,588 . . 173,949 19. Wingan Inlet* ...... 518 ...... 518 t 218 300 . . 518 20. Wyperfeld ...... 4,932 ...... 129 90 5,151 2,954 1,484 713 . . 5,151 21. Yanakie* ...... 429 ...... 442 . . 871 841 30 .. . . 871

Totals ...... 120,477 12,275 52,339 53,181 6,107 400 60,567 27,855 I 333,201 ll7,074 92,483 ll9,387 4,257 333,201

• There are no Committees of Management for these parks. Figures have been extracted from the accounts of the National Parks Fund. In all other cases, the relevant figures have been extracted from the Financial Statements provided by the Committee of Management. t Wages for the East Gippsland National Parks are shown in Appendix 3. t This is the amount paid by the Committee of Management for casual and temporary employees ; wages of the Ranger and Park Assistant for the Fraser National Park are shown in Appendix 3. § Includes $12,334 for the operation of the ski·tows in the Mount Buffalo National Park. 25

APPENDIX 5.

PROPOSED WORKS PROGRAMME FOR 1969~70.

1. Wype1feld National Park- $ s Maintenance including Ranger Service 4,200 Improvements and General 800 5,000

2. Kinglake National Park- Maintenance including Ranger Service 8,000 Fire Protection 800 Land Purchase-Jehosaphat Gully 6,000 Improvements and General 4,700 19,500

3. Fern Tree Gully National Park­ Maintenance including Ranger Service 10,800 Fire Protection 2,000 Improvements and General 3,000 15,800

4. Wilson's Promontory National Park­ Maintenance including Ranger Service 11,625 Fire Protection 18,420 Master Planning 4,500 Improvements and General 19,172 53,717

5. Mount Buffalo National Park­ Maintenance including Ranger Service 10,000 Fire Protection 1,500 Pomalift (subject to Special Finance) 24,000 Improvements and General 10,500 46,000

6. The Lakes National Park- Maintenance including Ranger Service 4,100 Fire Protection 200 Improvements and General 2,000 6,300

7. Lind National Park­ Maintenance .. 200 200

8. Alfred National Park­ Maintenance .. 100 100

9. Wingan Inlet National Park­ Maintenance .. 400 Fire Protection 200 600

10. Mallacoota Inlet National Park- Maintenance (Ranger Service shown in East Gippsland section) 2,200 Fire Protection 1,500 Improvements and General 900 4,600

1 L Tarra Valley National Park­ Maintenance including Ranger Service 2,100 Fire Protection 100 Improvements and General 800 3,000

12. Bulga National Park- Maintenance including Ranger Service 2,400 Fire Protection 100 Improvements and General 500 3,000

13. Churchill National Park- Maintenance including Ranger Service 5,350 Fire Protection 600 Improvements and General 2,380 8,330 3857/71.-3 26

APPENDIX 5-continued.

PROPOSED WORKS PROGRAMME FOR 1969-70--continued.

14. Fraser National Park- $ $ Maintenance including Ranger Service 9,300 Fire Protection 1,200 Water Supply 4,000 Control Point 2,500 Improvements and General 5,450 22,450

15. Hattah Lakes National Park­ Maintenance including Ranger Service 7,400 Fire Protection 200 Improvements and General 1,000 8,600

16. Mount Richmond National Park­ Maintenance including Ranger Service 1,200 Fire Protection 600 Improvements and General 1,600 3,400

17. Mount Eccles National Park­ Maintenance including Ranger Service 2,700 Fire Protection 350 Improvement and General 450 3,500

18. Glenaladale National Park­ Maintenance including Ranger Service 1,800 Fire Protection 100 Improvements and General 650 2,550

19. Port Campbe/1 National Park­ Maintenance including Ranger Service 7,000 Fire Protection 200 Improvements and General 2,500 9,700

20. Little Desert National Park­ Maintenance including Ranger Service 4,300 Fire Protection 300 Improvement and General 500 5,100

21. Wilson's Promontory-Yanakie Area­ Maintenance including Ranger Service 3,800 Fire Protection 1,000 Improvements and General 6,700 11,500

22. Organ Pipes­ Survey 400 400

23. Lwt Gippsland National Parks­ Ranger Service 3,900 3,900

24. i\.1isce!laneous and General­ Ranger Training 1,800 Secretarial Service 300 Government Fire Pool Insurance 2,000 Publicity 3,500 Notices .. 450 Technical Offtcers Equipment 300 Technical Services 3,000 P.W.D. Emergency Fund 400 11,750

Total Proposed Expenditure 248,997 27

WYPERFELD 139.760 ACRES

HA TT AH LAKES 44.000 ACRES

THE LAKES 5.288 ACRES NATIONAL PARKS

IN VICTORIA

FRASER 6,600 ACRES

KING LAKE 14.079 ACRES

927 ACRES

CHURCHILL 477 ACRES

315 ACRES

WILSONS PROMONTORY 102.379 ACRES

LINO 2.882 ACRES

ALFRED 5.406 ACRES

WING AN 4.730 ACRES

MALLACOOTA 11.225 ACRES

PORT CAMPBELL 1.750 ACRES

MT RICHMOND 1.534 ACRES

Figure I.

----··---· ------B·· At•thority: C. H. RIXON, Government Printer, Melbourne.