Queensland

Parliamentary Debates [Hansard]

Legislative Assembly

TUESDAY, 9 SEPTEMBER 1969

Electronic reproduction of original hardcopy

402 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Questions

TUESDAY, 9 SEPTEMBER, 1969

Mr. SPEAKER (Hon. D. E. Nicholson, Murrumba) read prayers and took the chair at 11 a.m.

QUESTIONS

SNOWY MOUNTAINS AUTHORITY'S REPORT ON CENTRAL QUEENSLAND POWER-HOUSE Mr. Houston, pursuant to notice, asked The Premier,- ( 1) Did the Queensland Government receive from the Commonwealth a feasi­ bility report by the Snowy Mountains Authority on the proposed Central Queens­ land power-house scheme? If so, when and what were the recommendations of the report? (2) On what date was Queensland's complete submission forwarded to the Commonwealth regarding this scheme? Answers:- ( 1) "A report by the Snowy Mountains Authority on the proposed project, in res­ ponse to specific Terms of Reference, was receiv.ed from the Commonwealth on Saturday, 9th August. It was not a feas­ ibility report in the strict sense of that type of study. The contents of the Report are confidential to the two Governments." (2) "Queensland's written submission was made on September 4, 1968 and other major supporting written submissions were made on March 10 and August 25, 1969."

PRESS RELEASE ON CHANGES IN MINISTRY Mr. Houston, pursuant to notice, asked The Premier,- (1) Who released to the Press (a) the name of the new Minister and (b) the re-allocation of portfolios? (2) Why was this information given to the Press before being announced in Parliament? Answers:- ( 1) "I released the name of the pro­ posed new Minister and the intended port­ folio changes to the Press." Questions [9 SEPTEMBER) Questions 403

(2) "There was no requirement for Answers:- Parliament to be advised before the public The Secretary of the Townsville Hos­ of the Government's intentions. A Min­ pitals Board has advised as follows:- isterial statement formally notifying Parliament of the actual, as distinct from (1) "$362 was withdrawn in cash the proposed, changes will be made, as for patients' own personal use. $234.42 usual, this morning." was withdrawn for use on patients' behalf. $4 377.61 was remitted to the Public Cur­ at~r on the death of various patients." COMMUTER SERVICE TO GOLD COAST (2) "Records are not available to allow a similar dissection in respect of this Mr. Hinze, pursuant to notice, asked The amount. An amount of $1,646 was how­ Minister for Transport,- ever remitted to the Public Curator on ( 1) Has the Brisbane Transport Study the death of various patients." Committee completed its survey into the transport requirements of the City of Bris­ bane and adjacent areas? MEDICAL EXAMINATION OF MoUNT lsA ( 2) Has the committee given considera­ MINES LTD. EMPLOYEES tion to providing a commuter service to Mr. Tucker, pursuant to notice, asked The the Gold Coast City, as it is the fastest­ Minister for Health,- growing city in Australia and there is Further to his Answer to my Question no public transport available at present? on August 27 that $4,784.65 was paid to (3) Has he given any instructions to the the Townsville General Hospital- committee to consider a proposal to pro­ ( 1) Was the private enterprise, Mo~nt vide a standard-gauge rail link from Bris­ Isa Mines Ltd. able to have 1,013 of Its bane to the New South Wales border? intending employees ~-rayed . and fully examined by the leadmg medtcal officer Answers:­ of the Townsville General Hospital for a (!) "No." net amount of $4.72 per person? (2) If not, and other amount? were (2) 'The Gold Coast City has been paid (a) to whom were they paid, (b) included in the area to be reported upon what was the collective amount and (c) by the Consultants. Terms of the study why was this allowed in view of his state­ contract require the consultants to investi­ ment that only visiting specialists had the gate and report on public transport right of private practice? requirements, projected to the year 2000, for the City of Brisbane and its environs Answers:- including Ipswich, Redcliffe, Gold Coast, North Coast and also taking into account (!) "As indicated in my Answer to the long distance intrastate and interstate road Honourable Member on August 27, 1969 services. There are two licensed road the Hospitals Board has not charged a passenger services operating between Bris­ fee for medical examinations and total bane and Coolangatta. Between them fees received by the Board for X-ray they provide 23 return trips, Monday to examinations was $4,784.65." Friday. Additional services are provided (2) "Inquiries made over the week-end on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holi­ reveal that some payments have been days." made by Mount Isa Mines Ltd. to ~he (3) "No. Such a proposal would be Medical Superintendent of the Townsville outside the scope of a study of this nature General Hospital. The matter is being which does not deal with interstate trans­ referred to the Townsville Hospitals Board port other than terminal requirements." and I shall further advise the Honourable Member when a written reply is received from the Board." WITHDRAWALS FROM TRUST ACCOUNTS OF GERIATRIC PATIENTS, TOWNSVILLE DOCTORS ENGAGED FOR WORKERS' GENERAL HOSPITAL CoMPENSATION CLAIMS Mr. Tucker, pursuant to notice, asked The Mr. Sherrington, pursuant to notice, asked Minister for Health,- The Treasurer,- ( 1 ) Further to his Answer to my Ques­ ( 1) What is the number o~ medical tion on August 26 that $4,974.03 was practitioners in the metropolitan area withdrawn from the trust accounts of whose services are used by the State people who occupied beds in the geriatric Government Insurance Office for pur­ ward at the Townsville General Hospital, poses of workers' compensation claims? what part of this amount was actually drawn for the patients' own personal use (2) (a) What are their names and or for use on their behalf? qualifications, (b) what is the nature of the service they perform and (c) how (2) Of the amount of $5,658.64, what much was paid to each in each of the past part was withdrawn for the same reasons? two years? 404 Questions [ASSEMBLY] Questions

Answer:- RAILWAY OVERPASS BRIDGE, CHERMSIDE ( 1 and 2) "Medical fees were paid by RoAD, EAST IPSWICH the State Government Insurance Office to Mr. Marginson, pursuant to notice, asked approximately 800 medical practitioners The Minister for Transport,- in the Brisbane metropolitan area for the twelve months ended June 30 last. The ( 1 ) Is the Railway Department con­ informatri

MIGRATION TO MAINLAND OF TORRES (2) As "artificial" meat is made exten­ STRAIT ISLANDERS sively in the U.S.A. and Japan, two of Australia's best export markets, has his Mr. B. Wood, pursuant to notice, asked Department any knowledge, or has a The Minister for Lands,- departmental study been made, of the What is the estimated number of Torres substitutes? Strait Islanders who have left their homes (3) As meat substitutes would have a for the South in the last ten years? grave effect on graziers and the many workers engaged in the meat industry, are Answer:- there any legislative safeguards operating "Torres Strait Islanders, whether assisted against their introduction? or non-assisted persons, have freedom of movement from the Torres Strait area and Answers:­ there is no requirement for the Department (!) "Yes." to approve or check movements to and fro. The Honourable Member will there­ (2) "Yes-The position has been con­ fore appreciate the information sought is stantly under review during the past year not available." and has also been brought to the atten­ tion of the Australian Agricultural Council." REDLYNCH RAIL-MOTOR SERVICE FOR ( 3) "The Commonwealth has full pow­ SCHOOL CHILDREN ers of control over imports into Australia." Mr. B. Wood, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Transport,- EXPENDITURE ON OFF-SHORE OIL ( I) Is the number of children attending EXPLORATION primary and secondary schools in Cairns, who travel on the Redlynch rail motor, Mr. R. Jones, pursuant to notice, asked in excess of 150? The Minister for Mines,- Since 1961, which companies, at present (2) Is he considering cancelling these holding Authorities to Prospect for petrol­ rail motor services and, if so, for what eum off Queensland's eastern coast, have reasons? spent two million dollars or more in such (3) Is he aware that parents along the search and what is the total amount spent route desire the services to be continued? by each of the companies? Answer:- Answer:- ( 1 to 3) "There has been an investiga­ "Details of expenditure incurred on an tion of the Cairns-Gordonvale-Aloomba Authority to Prospect are confidential and Cairns-Redlynch rail-motor services between the holder and the Department. as a result of strong representations for This has always been the policy since the an extension of the Cairns-Edmonton bus title was introduced. However, at present service to Gordonvale. Because of the expenditure on these exploration activities considerable advantage bus travel affords is at a rate approximating two million school children, the Commissioner for Rail­ dollars per year." ways has no objection to the proposal. With the introduction of the extended bus service, however, the rail-motor services CoMMONWEALTH APPROVAL OF OIL between Cairns and Aloomba cannot be EXPLORATION PERMITS, GREAT justified and will be withdrawn at the BARRIER REEF WATERS end of the 1969 school year. The licensee JVIr. R. Jones, pursuant to notice, asked of the Cairns-Redlynch Bus Service is pre­ The Minister for Mines,- pared to operate additional buses to cater for school children and with the introduc­ ( 1) Has any Commonwealth approval tion of these services at the end of the been given for any exploration permits 1969 school year, it is also intended to covering any Great Barrier Reef waters, withdraw the rail-motor services between subsequent to the enactment of the Petrol­ these points." eum (Submerged Lands) Act and, if not, why not? (2) If so, does the granting of such MANUFACTURE OF SYNTHETIC MEAT permits indicate Commonwealth acquies­ cence in oil exploration on the Reef? Mr. Thackeray, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Primary Industries,- Answers:- ( 1) Has he noted the remarks of the ( 1) "All applications made under the Australian Meat Board Chairman, Mr. provisions of Division 7 of "The Petroleum J. L. Shute, when addressing the Angus Submerged Lands) Act of 1967" and the Forum in March this year, concerning corresponding Commonwealth legislation meat substitutes and their deception of for the transition of an Authority to the uninitiated? Prospect to an Exploration Permit have 406 Questions [ASSEMBLY] Questions

been dealt with in accordance with clause (2) If so, will operations from these 11 of the Agreement of October 16, bases include coverage of the Burrum River 1967, between the Government of the catchment area, where there is a dire Commonwealth of Australia and the shortage of reticulated water-storage sup­ Government of the State of Queensland. plies, and other drought-stricken areas of All applications were referred to the Com­ the Isis electorate? monwealth and the consent of the Commonwealth obtained before the Answers:- Exploration Permits were granted. The ( 1) "Cloud-seeding operations are due conditions specified by the Commonwealth to commence about September 15 have been incorporated in the Exploration and continue for three months. The period Permits or have been issued to the per­ covers the months of maximum thunder­ mittees in the form of directions under the storm activity when clouds capable of joint legislation. No other Exploration being seeded should be more frequent Permits for Petroleum have been granted throughout Queensland. Supply bases for covering any Great Barrier Reef waters." the operation are Longreach, Charleville, Rockhampton and Brisbane. It was neces­ (2) "I refer the Honourable Member to sary to select bases which would give section 28 of "The Petroleum (Submerged adequate coverage of drought-affected Lands) Act of 1967" and the Petroleum areas in relation to the range of the air­ (Submerged Lands) Act 1967-1968 of the craft and the location of weather fore­ Commonwealth of Australia." casting centres." (2) "Indications of clouds likely to respond to silver iodide seeding which will FISHERIES CONFERENCE, DARWIN generally have cloud-tops in excess of 15,000 feet, will be obtained from Bureau Mr. R. Jones, pursuant to notice, asked of Meteorology forecasts. The Department The Minister for Primary Industries,- of Civil Aviation is arranging for cloud ( 1) What Minister and/ or representa­ and weather reports to be supplied by tives of the Queensland Fisheries Depart­ pilots of aircraft operating in drought ment attended the discussions with Com­ areas so that the cloud-seeding officers will monwealth aod other State Ministers and be aware of suitable conditions in other areas. The aircraft being used for the fisheries officials at Darwin in June this operation has a range of over 1,000 miles year? and a cruising speed of 225 miles per (2) What was the extent of the con­ hour so that the Bundaberg region, includ­ ference and the terms of reference directly ing the Burrum River catchment, which is affecting Queensland? less than an hour's flying time from Brisbane or Rockhampton, could be Answers:- seeded should suitable cloud conditions occur. Within the limitations imposed by ( 1) "The Minister for Primary Indus­ the aircraft performance, the object of tries, the Director-General of Primary the operation is to give maximum possible Industries and the Chief Inspector of coverage to all drought areas." Fisheries." (2) "The occasion was the first meeting of the Australian Fisheries Council which IMPLEMENTATION OF BUNDABERG comprises the Commonwealth Ministers IRRIGATION PROJECT for Territories and Interior and Ministers Mr. Blake, pursuant to notice, asked The charged with fisheries administration in Premier,- each State, with the Commonwealth As Press reports indicate that no Cabinet Minister for Primary Industry, as Chair­ Minister or senior departmental officer man. The purpose of the meeting was to will be included in the delegation to the discuss fisheries matters of common con­ National Development Committee in Can­ cern to the Commonwealth and the States." berra to present a case for the implementa­ tion of the Bundaberg and District Irriga­ tion scheme, will he, in view of the major CLOUD-SEEDING OPERATIONS TO INCLUDE importance of the scheme, (a) accompany BURRUM RIVER AREA the delegation himself or direct a Cabinet Mini&ter to do so, or (b) appoint a senior Mr. Blake, pursuaot to notice asked The departmental officer for this purpose? Premier,- ' ( 1) With reference to a report in The Answer:- Courier-Mail of September 4 will cloud­ "Official submissions to the Common­ seeding operations begin late; this month wealth stating a case for financial assistance under a State Government three-months' for the Bundaberg Irrigation Project have contract let to a Queensland-based air been made on a Premier to Prime Minister company operating from bases at Long­ level and must continue on that basis. The reach, Charleviiie or Brisbane? delegation arranged by the Bundaberg Questions [9 SEPTEMBER] Questions 407

Irrigation Committee is to meet the Com­ T!NAROO FALLS DAM LEVEL AND monwealth Parliamentary National PROPOSED FLAGGY CREEK DAM Development Committee to inform and seek the support of this Committee on Mr. Wallis-Smith, pursuant to notice, asked Commonwealth finance for the Bundaberg The Minister for Local Government,- scheme. The delegation, comprising the ( 1) What is the present level of the Honourable Member for Burnett, represen­ Tinaroo Falls Dam below the spillway tatives of the Bundaberg Irrigation Com­ level? mittee and the Canegrowers Council, is fully conversant with the scheme and the (2) What was the level on September 9, local conditions and problems which have 1965, 1966, 1967 and 1968? created the need for it. It is not proposed that myself, the Minister for Conservation, (3) What is the present outflow for the Marine and Aboriginal Affairs, or a senior (a) irrigation channel and (b) Barron departmental officer will be included. River? However, I am available at any time for further discussions on the scheme either ( 4) Will there be any need for a cur­ with the Prime Minister or his nominees." tailment of water supply for irrigation or power supply? (5) Has any consideration been given FREE PERMITS FOR ROAD TRANSPORT IN to the construction of Flaggy Creek dam DECLARED DROUGHT AREAS to provide an assured supply for power Mr. Aiken, pursuant to notice, asked The generation? Minister for Transport,- ( 1) What are the conditions covering Answers:- the issue of free permits for road transport " As this Question was obviously intended of livestock and fodder in drought­ for me in my capacity as Minister for declared areas? Conservation, Marine and Aboriginal (2) Is it one of the conditions that the Affairs, the Answer is as follows:- road journey for the transport of stock (1) "On September 3, the water level in backward store condition, either for in Tinaroo Falls Dam was 17 feet 6 slaughter or for agistment, will be less inches below spillway level and the volume than 25 per centum of competition with in storage is 206,200 acre feet. (Capacity rail? at full supply level is 330,000 acre feet.)" (3) How many free permits have been (2) "Actual levels in the dam in pre­ issued to graziers and pastoralists for (a) vious years were as follows: September 9, road transport of stock in backward store 1965, 1 foot below spillway level; Sep­ condition and (b) transportation of tember 9, 1966, 18 feet 9 inches below drought fodder in areas more than 200 spillway level; September 9, 1967, 4 miles from the coast? inches below spillway level; September 9, 1968, 6 feet 9 inches below spillway level." Answers:- ( 3) "The present rate of release to the (1) "The conditions are:-(i) For live­ irrigation channel and Barron River are: stock-(a) the road transport of all stock in any condition from a property in a Irrigation channel, 128 cusecs = 256 acre feet per day; Barron River, 100 cusecs = drought-declared area for sale, slaughter 200 acre feet per day." or agistment. Should re-consignment for agistment be necessary the stock are again (4) "No." eligible for a further free road permit for the journey; (b) the return of the sur­ (5) "The construction of Flaggy Creek vivors of agisted stock and their progeny Dam is a matter for the Northern Electric by road; (c) the road transport of stock Authority, but as far as I am aware its purchased for restocking on account of early construction is not likely." drought losses by deaths or enforced sales provided that this represents 20 per cent. or more of the property's stock. (ii) For NORMAN RIVER CHANNEL MARKINGS, fodder-The road transport of fodder KARUMBA from anywhere in the State to a property in a drought-declared area." Mr. Wallis-Smith, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Local Government,- (2) "No." In view of the large increase in the (3) "Free permits are issued at police number of prawn-processing plants at stations throughout the State for both the Karumba and the need for an all-weather transport of stock and fodder and are of access to the Norman River from the a continuing nature and the exact number Gulf of Carpentaria, will he consider of such permits issued is not available the provision of a gaslight fairway buoy but since the inception of the scheme in and improvements to other channel mark­ 1965 over 23,000 of such permits have ings between the fairway buoy and the been issued." river? 408 Questions [ASSEMBLY] Questions

Answer:- ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS (CYCLAMATES) "All existing buoys, including the fair­ IN FOOD AND DRINK way buoy at Karumba, are to be replaced Mr. P. Wood, pursuant to notice, asked by four new lighted buoys by the The Minister for Health,- end of this month at a cost of approxi­ mately $3,600. The lights on the new ( 1) Does his Department exercise any buoys will have a visibility range of four control or supervision over the amount of to five miles." artificial sweeteners used in food and drink sold in Queensland? (2) Does his Department have any information concerning the effects of an NEW BARRON RIVER BRIDGE, MAREEBA excessive intake of cyclamates and, if so, l\1r. Wallis-Smith, pursuant to notice, asked what is such information? The Minister for Mines,- (3) Do any of the Acts under his ( 1) When will the new bridge over supervision require that food or drink the Barron River at Mareeba be com­ containing cyclamates be so labelled? If pleted and open for traffic? not, will he arrange for such a provisiOn (2) Has any decision been made as to be inserted in the relevant Act? to the name for the new bridge? If not, will he seek suggestions from the people Answers:- of Mareeba and surrounding areas? (!) "Yes, the Food and Drug Regula­ tions contain the relevant provisions." Answers:- ( 1) "It is anticipated that the bridge (2) "The Food Additives and Contam­ will be completed early in November, and inants Committee of the British Ministry the approaches completed and bridge of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food opened to traffic in December." reported in 1965 that 'since cyclamates do not appear to produce any toxic effects, (2) "No decision has yet been made as since the amounts likely to be ingested will to the name of the new bridge. Sugges­ not be of an order likely to produce a tions from the Local Authority are always significant laxative effect and since they considered." will be to a great extent self-limiting, there would be no risk to health in allowing the use of cyclamates in food NEW ENROLMENTS, QUEENSLAND without statutory limitation, except for UNIVERSITY that already laid down in the Soft Drink Regulations'. The same committee con­ Mr. P. Wood, pursuant to notice, asked firmed its previous report in 1967 but The Minister for Education,- suggested further scientific examination of What was the number of new students the subject." enrolled at the University of Queensland for each of the years 1966, 1967, 1968 (3) "Yes, the Food and Drug Regula­ and 1969? tions set out specific declaration and label­ ling requirements." Answer:-

Part- "Year Full- Time TimePart- I Total LAND FOR NEW STATE HIGH SCHOOL, Time Internal External ------TOOWOOMBA !966- Mr. Bousen, pursuant to notice, asked The Brisbane 1,946 1,126 426 3,498 Minister for Education,- Townsville 189 36 .. 225 ------· ------Has ground been acquired for a fourth Total .. 2,135 1,162 426 3,723 State high school at Toowoomba? If so, --- 1967- where is it situated and when is it expected Brisbane 1,944 981 431 3,356 that building will commence? Townsville 159 30 .. 189 ------Total .. 2,103 1,011 431 3,545 ------Answers:- 1968- Brisbane 1,926 841 327 3,094 ( I) "Yes." Townsville 179 44 .. 223 ------(2) "Reserve Wilsonton (R1174), Total .. 2,105 885 327 3,317 --- County of Aubigny, Parish of Drayton. 1969- __3_2_1_1~ The reserve faces North Street and is 25 Brisbane 2,133 670 Townsville 265 99 . . 364 acres 2 roods in area." ------Total .. 2,398 769 321 3,488" (3) "No plans have been made for a I fourth high school in Toowoomba." Questions [9 SEPTEMBER] Questions 409

RESIDENCE FOR GENERAL MANAGER, still employed. Of those fellowship den­ RAILWAY DEPARTMENT, TOOWOOMBA tists appointed prior to July 1, 1966, four Mr. Bonsen, pursuant to notice, asked The terminated duty during the year ended Minister for Transport,- June 30, 1967, three terminated duty during the year ended June 30, 1968, and ( 1) What was the cost of construction six terminated duty during the year ended or the purchase price of the new home June 30, 1969-all failing to complete located in the Picnic Point area, for the their bond of service. (c) Repayments General Manager of the Railway Depart­ of moneys following the breaking of bonds ment, Toowoomba? by fellowship dentists were: $1,977.11 in (2) What is the department's intention the year ended June 30, 1967; $4,307.64 in regard to the residence formerly in the year ended June 30, 1968; $3,867.80 occupied by the General Manager? in the year ended June 30, 1969. The above figures relate to dental fellowship Answers:- holders employed in dental hospitals, hospi­ (1) "$15,600." tal dental clinics and the School Health (2) "The previous residence occupied Dental Services." by the General Manager was sold on October 29, 1968, to the tenderer who submitted the highest tendered price as a SPECIAL GOLDEN CASKET LOTTERIES FOR result of public tenders which were NEW QUEENSLAND ART GALLERY invited." Mr. Bromley, pursuant to notice, asked The Treasurer,- DECLARED AREAS UNDER CLEAN AIR AcT Further to the Answer to my Question by Mr. H:mson, pursuant to notice, asked The the Minister for Education on August 20 in Minister for Health,- relation to the progress of plans for a (1) What are the declared areas of the new art gallery, and in view of the State under "The Clean Air Act of 1963"? Premier's refusal to agree to and institute (2) When were these areas declared? a series of special lotteries to help finance the building of a new art gallery, will he ( 3) Are further areas to be declared authorise the appropriate department to under this Act and, if so, when? conduct special lotteries for this purpose? Answers:- If not, why not? ( 1) "The cities of Brisbane and Answer:- Ipswich." "! assume the Honourable Member is (2) "May 8, 1965." referring to the Golden Casket, which is (3) ''In a letter dated August 5, 1969, administered by me. The net proceeds the Air Pollution Council of Queensland from the Golden Casket Art Union are recommended the extension of the Act to credited to the Hospital, Motherhood and other areas immediately upon the appoint­ Child Welfare Trust Fund and I am not ment of at least one engineer to the prepared to divert the funds so used for Division staff. Applications for this posi­ tion are currently being considered." humanitarian purposes towards the con­ struction of an art gallery."

DENTAL FELLOWSHIP HOLDERS MINISTERIAL NEWSLETTER TO PARENTS Mr. Melloy, pursuant to notice, asked The AND CITIZENS' ASSOCIATIONS Minister for Health,- How many dental fellowship holders Mr. Bromley, pursuant to notice, asked (a) were appointed to country clinics or The Minister for Education,- hospitals, (b) have failed to complete their With regard to the parents and citizens' compulsory service and (c) were com­ newsletter, headed "From The Minister's pelled to make a monetary payment in Desk", and printed over his signature- lieu of their service and what was the ( 1) How many parents and citizens' total amount paid in this regard, in the associations proposed this measure? years ended June 30, 1967, 1968 and 1969, respectively? (2) From what schools did the proposal emanate? Answer:- (3) How often will the newsletter be "( a) Five fellowship dentists were printed? appointed in the year ended June 30, 1967; five fellowship dentists were appointed in ( 4) To how many schools and other the year ended June 30, 1968; ten fellow­ institutes of learning will it be circulated? ship dentists were appointed in the year ended June 30, 1969. (b) All fellowship (5) How many will be forwarded to dentists appointed since July 1, 1966, are each school? 410 Questions [ASSEMBLY] Ministerial Expenses

( 6) What is the cost of this expensive­ ing area abutting a concrete boat launching looking newsletter with respect to (a) each ramp proposed to be constructed by the single issue, (b) total issue when under Corporation if the land is acquired. This full production and (c) monthly cost and matter is under negotiation with the postage? company." (7) How many staff will be engaged in compiling and distributing each issue? BREACHES OF BoATING REGULATIONS Answers:- Mr. Bromley asked The Minister for Local ( 1) "During the course of visits to Government,- schools, and meetings with parents and citi­ (!) How many people have been (a) zens' associations, the idea of a direct link charged with and (b) prosecuted for between parents and citizens' associations breaches of the boating regulations during and myself was proposed to me on the years 1966-67, 1967-68 and from numerous occasions. I have kept no July 1, 1968, to the present date? accurate count or list of the number of people or associations who proposed the (2) What were the breaches and the newsletter." outcome of the charges? (2) "See Answer to (1). ( 3) In what areas were breaches most commonly detected? (3) "Once per term, i.e., three times a year." (Originally asked on September 4, 1969) ( 4) "To every State school." Answers:- (5) "Up to six copies, depending on (1) " (a) and (b) The details in respect the size of the school." of the years 1966-67 and 1967-68 are con­ (6) "(a) 4·5 cents per copy; (b) tained in the annual report of the Depart­ approximately 5,000; the first issue ment of Harbours and Marine for those printed totalled 5,3 SO; (c) The cost of the years. For the period July 1, 1968, to first issue was $243.96. Postage will hence­ August 31, 1969, there were 211 prosecu­ forward be minimal, as newsletters will be tions against the Motor Boat and Motor enclosed with normal items of corres­ Vessel Regulations." pondence going to schools." (2) "The prosecutions in the latter (7) "One officer will be helping me period were in respect of the following produce the newsletter as part of his breaches:-Using an unregistered motor general duties. Distribution will be boat, 44; failure to register motor boat, handled within my Department in con­ 12; registered numbers not painted on junction with the distribution of other vessel, 6; exceeding speed limit, 37; not material." being the lawful holder of a speed boat driver's licence, 51; not being the lawful holder of a water-ski boat driver's licence, TOONDAH HARBOUR PROJECT, 18; engaging in water-skiing without a CLEVELAND permit, 3; water skiing outside approved Mr. Baldwin, pursuant to notice, asked area, 11; failure to carry observer in The Minister for Local Government,- water-ski boat, 15; permitting water-ski Further to his Answer to my Question boat to be used by a person not the law­ on August 21 concerning the Toondah ful holder of a licence, 6; carrying per­ Harbour project- sons in excess of number permitted in a water-ski boat, 1; operating motor boat ( 1) What were the terms, conditions without a launch master's certificate, 2; and cost of the land acquired by operating hire vessel without a survey, 2; Stradbroke Ferries Pty. Ltd.? failure to keep proper lookout, 1; over­ (2) From whom was the land acquired? loading of motor vessel, 1; collision with another vessel, 1. All persons prosecuted ( 3) Is the land to be resold to any other were found guilty with the exception of body or resumed by any State or local one case which was withdrawn." government body? If so, (a) which body, (b) at what cost and (c) for what purpose (3) "Southport, Brisbane and is it to be purchased or resumed? Townsville."

Answers:- MINISTERIAL EXPENSES ( 1 and 2) "The land being reclaimed by the company at Toondah Harbour is RETURN TO ORDER Crown land over which a special lease The following paper was laid on the has been offered to the company. As the table:- lease is still being negotiated the terms Return to a-n Order made by the House and conditions thereof have not been on 19 August last, on the motion of finalised." Mr. Cory, of expenses of Ministers for (3) "The Corporation of the Treasurer the period 1 July, 1968, to 30 June, '1969, of Queensland desires to obtain part of inclusive, showing each separately and in the reclaimed land as a trailer boat park- detail. Address in Reply [9 SEPTEMBER] Address in Reply 411

PAPERS Mr. CAREY (Albert) (11.54 a.m.): It is The following paper was laid on the table, a particular pleasure for me to be on my and ordered to be printed:- feet today to join in this most important debate for the lOth consecutive time. Report of the Police Superannuation Board for the year 1968-69. Opposition Members interjected. The following papers were laid on the Mr. CAREY: If my friends on the Opposi­ table:- tion benches will kindly be patient, they will be able to hear my speech and judge for Order in Council under the Water Act themselves whether or not I am the best 1926-1968. representative that Albert has ever had. Regulation under the Apprenticeship Act On behalf of >the people whom I have the of 1964. honour to represent, I reaffirm our loyalty to Her Most Gracious Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, and I should also like to join MINISTERIAL STATEMENT in congratulating Prince Charles on his elevation to the high and honourable position MINISTRY of Prince of Wales. Hon. J. BJELKE-PETERSEN (Barambah­ I join with other hon. members in thank­ Premier) (11. 30 a.m.) : I desire to inform ing His Excellency the Administrator, the House that, on 4 September, 1969, His Honourable Joseph Sheehy, for his Opening Excellency the Administrator of the Govern­ Speech. ment- (ll') appointed- Mr. SPEAKER: Order! There is too much noise in the Chamber. Wallace Alexander Ramsay Rae, Esquire, to be a member of the Mr. CAREY: I think all hon. members Executive Council of Queensland; agree that it was wonderful for the Acting (b) appointed- Chief Justice to be given the opportunity of opening Parliament at his time of life, and The Honourable Ronald Ernest Camm, I am sure that he appreciated it. Naturally, to be Minister for Mines and Main all members of this Assembly trust that the Roads of Queensland; Chief Justice, Sir William Mack, will soon The Honourable Neville Thom

Ron Camm a Press release issued by him be a matter for the Minister for Labour and today. I shall read it, as I want it to go Tourism, and I hope that Cabinet and the into "Hansard". Government parties will give earnest con­ It states- sideration to this matter. " 'A proposal to introduce a system of Mr. Lonergan: Are you in favour of pro­ markings on road pavements throughout hibiting subcontractors? Queensland has been approved. These markings will be primarily speed limit Mr. CAREY: I have not gone very deeply markings but provision had also been made into the matter of subcontractors, but I was in the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control very disappointed when this Government­ Devices for additional legends and a pave­ and I was a party to it-repealed the Con­ ment marking alphabet,' said Mr. Camm." tractors' and Workmen's Lien Act, because So hon. members will see that we have been little opportunity is now given to subcontrac­ successful in our efforts. tors to obtain their payments from snide builders. Mr. Wallis-Smith: What date is that letter? I do not favour willy-nilly registration of Mr. CAREY: This is a Press release dated everybody. I like to see freedom of the people 9 September. It is strange that the hon. and not too much interference with their member for Tablelands does not seem to be rights. I have made a fairly careful survey able to hear. He should get one of those in my own electorate, and I have copies of switch-on, switch-off mechanisms. letters from old people, pensioners and others who live on the Gold Coast complaining that The final paragraph in that statement says- the builders they had employed were not " 'Driver reaction to the markings dur­ doing a good job. In fact, a number of the ing the trial was good,' said Mr. Camm, people who complained said they could not 'and it is my and my Traffic Engineers' even get the builder to complete the job belief that the adoption and extension of because he thought he was going to lose this marking scheme will effect improve­ money on it. This sort of thing goes on, ment in the observance by drivers of speed and the home-owner is faced with hardship. limits'." I am interested more in giving my support to That is exactly what I advocated. the home-owner than to registering the builder Mr. Tucker: Wouldn't you think that he and the contractor. would put your name in that? Mr. Tucker: Wouldn't it be preferable to have better inspection rather than Mr. CAREY: I do not think that hon. registration? members look for a tremendous amount of praise. I am quite happy as long as I have Mr. CAREY: The Deputy Leader of the achieved something for the motorists. Opposition has raised a very good point, but I turn now to the registration of builders. I think we should first have registration, and It may be a little premature for the Govern­ then the Government may see fit to appoint ment to give the matter consideration, but the inspectors-- present time seems to be opportune for regi­ Mr. Miller: An army of them? stering builders. I know that the Master Builders' Association has made many over­ Mr. CAREY: No, not an army of inspec­ tures to the Government to register its mem­ tors. I do not like the thought of an army bers and all other persons who are capable of of inspectors. carrying out the work of a builder, building Mr. Miller: There would have to be. contractor or carpenter. The association is happy to have registered any building worker Mr. CAREY: Inspectors are employed on who can pass a prescribed test. There is no Housing Commission buildings and I think shutting of the door. Doctors, electricians they are needed. If a builder does not do drainers and dentists are registered, and no~ a worth-while job he should lose his licence. the Mmister for Health is intending to have When we provide protection to an organisa­ chiropodists registered. If chiropodists, who tion it should shoulder its responsibility and look af!er. the pe'?ple's feet, are to be regi­ ensure that anyone who is licensed does a stered, It IS more nnportant that builders are good job. I will not try to give details of registered so that some control can be exer­ a registration scheme. We have very capable cised over the construction of homes for departmental officers who could draft a people who, in the main, can afford to have suitable scheme. only one home built in their lifetime. Admit­ Probably all hon. members read an article tedly each person has only one pair of feet, which appeared in "The Courier-Mail" this but generally speaking a home is built by a morning relating to two roof repairers who person who puts the whole of his life savings were charged with fraud. I do not propose into its construction, and he makes it his to say what is right and what is wrong, but castle. Therefore, we should ensure that only I am sure that you, Mr. Speaker, will per­ tradesmen with the ability required by regi­ mit me to read a small portion of the stration should be given a licence to build, article, even though the court case is con­ and only the best available materials should tinuing. If these men have done what is be used in the construction of homes. I alleged-! am neither the judge nor the presume that the registration of builders will jury-it is essential that registration should 414 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply be provided as quickly as possible. The Mr. CAREY: Evidently the hon. member article is headed, "Two roof repairers deny for Cairns has not the intelligence to compre­ fraud charge." It then continues-- hend what I am suggesting when he asks such "A widow, 72, claimed in the District a question. That is all we can expect from Court yesterday she paid out $1,000 in that hon. gentleman. cash to two men after she let them start I ask that all hon. members support me in work on an $80 sparrow-proofing job my next suggestion. We have heard a good at her Rocklea home." deal about varying our Standing Orders and The Press article contains the following state­ altering the time limit on speeches. Prior to ments in reply to questions- the election, the Leader of the Opposition "Downs had agreed that neither he nor claimed that Parliament did not meet often Deen were qualified carpenters, plumbers enough or for long enough. My suggestion or drainers." is completely different. I suggest that the Government-perhaps I should say "Parlia­ Mr. Lee: Men of that type would not ment"-should consider extending the elected get into the Master Builders' Association for term of each Parliament to four or five registration. years instead of three years. Do many of the newly elected members feel confident and Mr. CAREY: They would have no chance of getting in. know exactly where they are going? Judging from some of the questions they are asking, The article continues- I doubt whether they know anything at all "Asked if Amalgamated Roof Repair about government. Service ever employed any qualified trades­ men, Downs had said: 'You don't need Mr. Lee: A parliamentarian, in his first qualified men. We can tell them what three years, is nothing but an apprentice. to do.' Mr. CAREY: That is so, and then, at the "Asked about equipment, Downs had said: end of that three years, he must face the 'You don't need much equipment. Just public again. a ladder and hammer and saw and nails'.'' Mr. Davies: Government members would Hon. members can realise that anyone with like 10 years. the barest knowledge of building practice can advertise in the Press, go where he likes, Mr. CAREY: The hon. member is entitled and try to set himself up as a fully-fledged to his opinion. I am making my speech in my carpenter or builder. own way. Mr. Hinze: And then skip out of the Senators are elected for six years. Queens­ State after he has done a very poor job. land abolished its Legislative Council. I sometimes doubt that Australia needs a Mr. CAREY: That is so. These people Senate. It is not the watchdog it claims to frequently skip out of the State with the be. Six years is probably too long, because money. members elected for such a period could If registration was implemented, no become too complacent and feel too secure. doubt the Government would incorporate a The British Parliament is elected for five provision preventing anyone from advertis­ years. ing that he was a building contractor or Mr. P. Wood interjected. capable of doing certain work unless he had the qualifications necessary for registra­ Mr. CAREY: The hon. member is prob­ tion. As apprentices have to serve their ably thinking of France, where there is a time before becoming tradesmen, surely it change of Government every day. He should is only fair to protect them so that unquali­ study his history. fied people cannot enter their field of opera­ tions, especia:Jly as apprentices receive lower Mr. Lee: You are talking about Mr. Wilson wages than a journeyman. If apprentices and the Labour mob in England. have to pass examinations, it is essential to Mr. CAREY: Yes. register building contractors. The Tasmanian Parliament is elected for Mr. Lee: Give the master builders the say five years. Elections are costly to the State, and they will keep this element out of their the taxpayer and the candidate; they are a association. nuisance in many ways to the electors, and I Mr. CAREY: That is a pretty good point, suggest that an extension to four years would although I do not know that I favour this. be well received. I have conducted surveys I am not building up their regulations. I am not only in my own electorate but also in merely suggesting that regulations be intro­ Brisbane and other places I have visited, and duced by the Government and that they be they show that the electors would welcome implemented. I do not believe that every such a step with open arms because they are builder, contractor or carpenter should have sick and tired of elections. Many claim to join the Master Builders' Association. In that Governments, irrespective of party, are my opinion, that smacks of regimentation. election happy. There has just been a State election, and in October there is to be a Mr. R. Jones: You are precipitating the Federal election. Then there will be a registration of master builders? Senate election, and then local authority Address in Reply [9 SEPTEMBER] Address in Reply 415 elections. It goes on and on and on, till by the House, I do not intend to do so. It con­ the time it next gets round to another State tains a wealth of information, and it certainly in three years, if that remains as the term has assisted me to understand exactly what of office, the people will be so sick and tired is needed. of the whole thing that many of them will As one would expect, I have had quite not even want to vote. a lot to do with the people in my area, Mr. P. Wood: You just don't like elections. and so many have received the benefits of free hospitalisation and so few have been Mr. CAREY: The hon. member for Too­ inconvenienced that, so far as I am con­ woomba East is in his second term of office, cerned, anything that would diminish the and he is now starting to throw his weight confidence of the people in the free hospitali­ about. I wish he would confine himself to sation system must be criticised. One hears saying sensible things. everywhere stories of wonderful things done by doctors and nurses in general hospitals. Mr. Davies: You are jealous. Queensland has a free hospitalisation system, and only yesterday I was told that no-one Mr. CAREY: I am not; I certainly could requiring urgent medical or surgical attention not be jealous of the hon. member for Too­ has ever been turned away. A gentleman woomba East. told me that he took a very urgent case I now wish to deal with hospitals. I to one of the big hospitals in Melbourne would say that nothing on earth that has and was told to go to Geelong, that there been made by man cannot be bettered and, was no room in the hospital. of course, our hospital system can be Mr. Davies: You will acknowledge that improved. I think all recognise the import­ the Labour Party set it up, won't you? ance of the noble profession of the mem­ bers of the Australian Medical Association. Mr. CAREY: If the hon. member waits I do not know whether, as a body, the a little while, I shall tell him what the A.M.A. supports everything that has been Labour Party did. said in the recent Press publicity concerning The people who, because of illness or hard­ Queensland hospitals. It may be that a ship, have to go to Queensland hospitals few of its members support it. I believe for free treatment are very grateful for the that the hon. member for Wavell is to be service that is provided, and many of them admired for bringing this matter before the have appealed to me not to allow anything House, but I think that he could have been to interfere with the free hospitalisation a_ little more temperate. I would not appre­ system. I am very concerned and worried ciate the hon. member's telling me how to that the present controversy may be the run a store, which is something I have been thin end of the wedge being used by some doing all my life, so I suppose I cannot people to try to end free hospitalisation or to make people pay a certain amount for criticise what he is doing in the medical field. treatment, as is done in other States. It is I frankly admit that I am no authority on very easy to destroy things; it is very difficult the running of hospitals. We must therefore to be constructive and to build. take advice on the matter, as long as it comes from all the people concerned with Instead of highlighting shortcomings that this noble profession, or who are as near really do not count, I think one should try to being concerned with it as it is possible to impress upon the people of this State to get. who use free hospitalisation the good points of the system. I draw the attention of hon. I know that there is plenty of room for members to an article written by Mr. John improvement in the Southport General Hos­ Bragg that appeared in "The Sunday Mail" pital. Only a couple of weeks ago I led a on Sunday last. One paragraph said- deputation consisting of the members of the "It was easy to share the embarrassment ~oard, the secretar~ ~nd the medical super­ of a woman who had to call for a bedpan mtendent to the Mm1ster for Health asking in this confined space. But at least she that, because of overcrowding, an additional had a wall bed and was screened by ward be built immediately. Certainly the curtains." overcrowding is not as bad as shown Alt~ough over-crowding brings incon­ in the picture accompanying the article in vemences, that woman was prepared to the last edition of 'The Sunday Mail" on accept it in order to receive good medical hospital conditions by John Bragg, who was attention in hospital rather than stay at home at least prepared to put his name to what and perhaps die. he wrote. I am certain that the additional wing will be provided at Southport at an A little further down, under the heading early date; I have had private conversations "Patients satisfied", the article continued- with the Minister, and I feel confident that "A Wickham Terrace physician said: we can look forward to its construction very 'A tremendous number of patients are shortly. I have a submission of five foolscap satisfied with the public hospital service pages which was given to me by one of and they do get a more thorough investi­ the leading doctors on the Gold Coast. gation than a lot of general practitioners Although I have permission to table it in are able to give.' 416 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

"And another physician after criticising Finally, I want to say-and I know the the system, added: 'But acute care here Minister will be reading this with interest­ is as good as I've seen anywhere in the that I hope the Government is planning for world.'" the tremendous growth that will take place Hon. members should not forget the words on the Gold Coast and will see that not later "anywhere in the world". The physician than 1980 a 500 to 600-bed hospital is said also- built. It is urgent and important that we "Those that need and deserve treatment get such a hospital. get as much as they want." Mr. Hinze: We have land set aside for it A little further down the article continued- at Burleigh. "Another specialist could tell an inquiry of going to one of his out-patient sessions Mr. CAREY: I am not going to deal with at a public hospital to find 50 people wait­ the location of the hospital; all I want to see ing for him-because they'd all been told is a hospital for the people. to be there at the same time." Dr. Crawford interjected. Dr. Crawford: Bad organisation. Mr. CAREY: I appreciate the comment of Mr. CAREY: Yes, bad organisation; the the hon. member for Wavell, who is a pro­ times should be staggered. A similar pro­ fessional man, but I do not think that the blem arise·s at the Southport General Hos­ adverse publicity in the Press and on the pital. In fact, I have made a note that I radio has done very much for the poor unfor­ think that the point is well taken and that tunates who are lying in hospital believing the time of arrival of patients should be they are getting bad treatment. staggered. As I have only five minutes left, I want to The article continues- deal quickly with several other matters. I "One of Queensland's most distinguished refuse to take any more interjections. surgeons said: 'By and large, Queens­ landers get a pretty good service.' " Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The hon. member I believe that the words of such a distin­ has only three minutes. guished surgeon are well worth remembering. Mr. CAREY: I again appeal to the Further on the article said- Government to build a railway line from "Our child mortality rates are no higher Beenleigh to Southport, from Brisbane to than anywhere else in Australia. Yet you Southport, or from Brisbane to the border. wonder how much better they would have From the time of its closure, this rail link done with better nursing." has been used as a political football by hon. members opposite who have nothing better to Those extracts tell the story of the situa­ tion at that hospital. offer. This is the fastest-growing area in the State. It has 60,000 to 65,0{)0 permanent Mr. Murray: Who was the surgeon? residents, and a population of from 150,000 to 200,000 during most of the year. Mr. CAREY: I do not know. His name was not given. In "The Courier-Mail" on 2 May, it was I shall deal now with the interjection made reported that Cabinet was looking into th_e earlier by the hon. member for Mary­ expenditure of $2,500,000 on a new :all borough. Before a Country-Liberal Govern­ complex in the Mackay area. The art1cle ment took the Treasury benches in this said that the suggestion "will be taken to Assembly in 1957, a former member for Cabinet by the State Treasurer and Liberal South Coast, Mr. Eric Gaven, who retired Party leader (Mr. Chalk) for approval." Do some years ago, asked that a general hospi­ not forget that it is "for approval". I com­ tal be at Southport. He was told by pliment the Deputy Leader and Treasurer of bu~lt the State on a pre-election speech he made the Prem1er of the day that no hospital in support of a candidate of his party, which would be built in close proximity to the big was reported in the "Gold Coast Bulletin". Royal Brisbane Hospital. Of course, later I am sure it would be accurate. The report the Princess Alexandra Hospital had to be built, and, under a Country-Liberal Govern­ reads- ment, a hospital was built and opened at "Support for feasibility study Southport in 1960. "'Coast railway: Chalk's pledge "The Liberal Party's parliamentary Mr. Hams: What rubbish you are talking! leader, Mr. Chalk, would 'support in broad The Labour Party decided to build one at principle' a study to determine the feasi­ Wynnum at that time. bility of a standard gauge railway through Mr. CAREY: That might have been a the Gold Coast." Labour seat. I am telling hon. members If the Government can spend $2,500,000 in what the Premier of the day told the former Mackay, it can spend a few million dollars member for South Coast. He said the serving the fastest-growing area in the State. Government would not build one at South­ The people in my area and the Gold Coast port. Since then, we have built hospitals at generally-! know my colleague Russ Hinze Redcliffe, Caloundra and Hervey Bay to supports me-are crying out for a railway name just a few. Prior to that, all the' sick to be built. They are even demanding that and injured people who needed hospitali­ we build one. He and I cannot build a sation had to be taken to Brisbane. railway. We can make plans, but we expect Address in Reply [9 SEPTEMBER] Address in Reply 417 the Government to give very serious con­ the grave mounting debts of rural commu­ sideration to the case I have submitted and nities with repercussions on stable employ­ look forward to hearing, in the next Budget, ment in glaring contrast with the boom that something about a new railway for the Gold exists in other sectors of the economy. Anti­ Coast. inflationary measures are being taken by the Reserve Bank by withdrawing funds and Mr. BLAKE (Isis) (12.35 p.m.): I take this applying higher interest rates. Surely this opportunity to record expressions of loyalty proves Government incompetence or Govern­ of the electors of Isis and myself to Her ment indifference towards rural areas in not Most Gracious Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, ensuring that they receive fair treatment or a and to convey our respects and felicitations to just reward for supplying the lion's share of His Excellency the Administrator of the this State's economy. The fact that the credit Government, who opened the 39th Parlia­ restriction measures applied by the Reserve ment of Queensland. Bank in withdrawing $63,000,000 in funds I express my great appreciation to the and the raising of interest rates are spread electors of Isis for displaying their confidence like an indiscriminate blanket over the whole in me by giving me the opportunity of economy without regard for the dire credit representing them for another term in the needs of drought-stricken areas, shows a State Parliament. I pledge myself to justify complete lack of understanding of rural needs. that confidence by endeavouring to provide I hope that this Government can convince energetic and conscientious representation for the Federal Treasury that this is financial the Isis electorate. slaughter of those who are financially crippled in Queensland by drought and other circum­ I give thanks also to my parliamentary stances beyond their control, and that the colleagues and to the many supporters and Government manages to obtain some measure energetic workers in the Labour movement of financial recognition for them. who assisted me in my successful election campaign. I pay particular tribute to my Let me qualify the statement that the rural friend and campaign assistant, Mr. John Bunn. areas represent the lion's share of the economy of this State. Government statis­ I also extend hearty congratulations to the ticians estimate that the value of rural pro­ newcomers to this Chamber. I do this in no duction in 1969-despite the drought-will spirit of condescension, though I am a rise by 12 per cent., to $762,000,000. Mining, '"veteran" myself. although increasing in value by 37 per cent., will reach a total of only $204,000,000. It It gives me pleasure, Mr. Speaker, to be is time that the Government realised the able to congratulate you on your commend­ necessity to have solvent rural industries, not able impartiality in regard to my position in only as producers, but also as consumers of this Chamber. Government members, in our growing industrial output. The great extremes of wishful thinking, often referred bulk of our secondary-industry output is to me as the "temporary member for Isis", absorbed by rural industries in the form of and they predicted that I would make political tractors and trucks, as well as heavy, medium, history by serving the shortest possible term and light machinery, fertilisers, chemicals, as a member of this House. As I was re­ spare parts, fuels, etc. Directly or indirectly, elected with a greatly increased majority I the major portion of our economy, including felt that, when the Whip informed me that employment, is firmly based on rural pro­ my name had been omitted from his list of duction. As a contributor to the develop­ members entitled to vote in this House, ment of this State in the past, as an export Government members were carrying their earner and as the firm basis of our present wishful thinking just a little too far. I thank econo~w, rural industry remains unchal­ you, Mr. Speaker, for correcting that omission lenged. and restoring acknowledgment of true demo­ I accuse this Government of handing out cratic principles to this House. cost-saving privileges to certain solvent, To those Ministers who extended to me the secondary industries, mainly by way of normal courtesy of releasing official informa­ freight concessions, while making the rural tion pertaining to my electorate, I express my work-horse work harder and faster and get sincere thanks. To the other Ministers who poorer and poorer, while other sections of industry ride astride its back like circus used their office in an attempt to boost the ballerinas, getting all the applause. In electoral prospects of the Country Party most cases they dip into the meagre feed­ candidate, I extend my commiserations at their bag of the rural nag, by passing on costs extreme disappointment. that cannot be passed on again by rural It is common knowledge in my electorate industry. In many cases they accept no that I entered politics in protest against the responsibility whatever for earning overseas disastrous decline in the prosperity of rural credits, but simply skim the cream off the industries, of the businesses that were depen­ protected home markets dent upon the rural industries and of those At this point I express my disappointment people who were dependent on employment in that His Excellency the Administrator did in the rural industries. I compare that decline not mention anything in his address about with the conditions that prevail in other the formation of a consumers' protection sections of the community. That decline is council, or a similar body to carry out that not a political whipping horse; statistics prove function. I therefore assume that there is 14 418 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply no intention to introduce such a measure in people who were asking for financial assist­ the present session. That is a great pity, ance. I think the truth lay in the difference because from almost every rural industry between the phrases "Funds allocated" and conference come resolutions, well docu­ "Funds distributed". I do not think any funds mented by facts, asking for protection from were distributed at that particular time. exhorbitant charges for spare parts and This is not intended as a criticism of the various farm supplies. It appears that hopes raised in rural circles by Country Party departmental officers involved. Th~y have_ the election promises concerning action in this time-consuming jobs of interpretmg legisla­ regard are not to be realised. tion handed out by Cabinet, drawing up and printing forms, and getting the wh_eels turning. On behalf of the many primary producers However it is criticism of Cabmet for not and others in all sections of the community, dealing ~uch sooner with an obvious and who know that they are being fleeced in urgent situation. many instances, I challenge the Government to proceed with legislation that will give On 23 February, 1969, "The Sunday Mail" teeth to a consumer protection council so recorded that delegates to the Queensland that it will not remain a sham, paper tiger Country Party Conference in Maryborough used only for election purposes as it has been had sought alleviation of unfair transport up to date. Too many rural industries are charges and had pleaded for a better deal for staggering under the weight and the chafing drought-stricken areas. The Premier was of overdrafts, and providing piggy-back rides reported as being present. Apparently the for firms that pay between 7 per cent. and 20 submissions of the Country Party delegates per cent. in dividends, particularly as many were ignored by the Country Party. primary products today are selling at the I do not intend to adjudicate or to conduct prices that existed a decade ago. a post-mortem examination on the ducking No fair-minded person would deny that a and dodging by the Premier and the Prime drought brings troubles to Governments as Minister on who v. as to blame for the delay well as to people. It is the recorded history in Federal attention being given to Queens­ of this State, and indeed of this continent, that land's drought needs. Each blamed the other. there have been recurring droughts. Drought However, there is a distinct possibility that is not a problem peculiar to this Government, if Queensland had made an earlier approach, but I must say that this Government has as was justified by the drought conditions, handled the problem peculiarly. greater consideration could have been given, greater Federal appreciation of the State's Parts of the Isis electorate were declared needs could have been gained, and greater drought areas in November, 1968. Following benefits might have been obtained now and complaints from farmers who were unable to for the future, when the need will be very obtain any drought relief, I flew to Brisbane pressing. and asked for available funds from the Department of Primary Industries, the Treas­ It naturally follows that the problem of ury Department and the Agricultural Bank. drought and its cost turns our attention to All informed me that no funds were available. irrigation. The Burnett-Isis-Kolan irrigation This fact was recorded in local newspapers, scheme, as I shall refer to it because that together with details of the result of my represents more clearly the areas it will serve, inquiries to the State Wheat Board office, is of vital importance to that district and to Toowoomba, regarding the availability and the State of Queensland. A comprehensive price of so-called cheap wheat for stock report on the scheme is available to every fodder. member of this House, so I shall not waste time by going into its details. The hon. mem­ As a last resort on 20 March this year I bers for Mackay and Bundaberg are to be sent telegrams to the Premier and the Minister commended on their presentation and evalua­ for Primary Industries asking for immediate tion of the merits of the scheme and the funds for approved cases. The Minister for great need for the utilisation of Queensland's Primary Industries acknowledged my tele­ vast water resources. gram immediately-the Premier acknowledged I must press for the implementation of the it later-and referred my representations, with Burnett-Kolan-Isis scheme. Such a step is his support, to the State Treasurer. Forms essential if this area is to play a continuing for applications for assistance were still not and outstanding part in the development and available from Agricultural Bank branches in economy of Queensland, not only as a pro­ Gympie and Bundaberg on 2 April. Drought ducer but also as a consumer by virtue of areas were declared in my electorate and the multitude of products used in the intensive others early in November last year and even agricultural practices in the area. This is application forms for drought assistance were a function, I might add, which could not not available at the beginning of April. I be carried out by any agricultural industry believe that some forms were available other than sugar production. through dairy factories. I address my remarks to the Premier lest It was stated in the Press that quite a large he accuse me in the future, as he, along sum of money-! think it was close to with his political minions, did during the $250,000-had been distributed to needy, election campaign, of not making any repre­ drought-stricken farmers. That was not sentations to him concerning irrigation. reflected in the complaints voiced to me by Although he has said often and publicly Address in Reply (9 SEPTEMBER] Address in Reply 419

that he has a great appreciation of the need is warranted even on the basis of new for the Burnett-Kolan-Isis scheme and has development, apart from its stabilising effect. accorded it No. 1 priority, I shall put for­ The provision of water would release much ward a few salient facts which I hope will of the land now used for the production of convince the Government of the justification cane, and the present extensive fruit and of the State's going at least some of the way vegetable industry could be expanded vastly with State finance to ensure urgent Federal and would no doubt attract canning participation in this necessary and meritorious industries to the area, adding to secondary scheme, and to guarantee an early start to industry and decentralisation in the State. its implementation. The expenditure would bestow permanent Let me make it clear to those in authority benefits for countless generations, a direct that the State's economy, and the State contrast to the massive expenditure on the Treasury, may not be able to look forward development of coal resources, which Govern­ in the future to the same performance as this ment Ministers themselves admit may be area has produced in the past if the Burnett worthless in 15 years' time. I hope that the scheme is not proceeded with. With the reports that one sees in the Press of the present high cost of production and the Government's "Go it alone" attitude on burden of earning overseas credits on unpro­ finance for the proposed Central Queensland fitable markets, the dry farms in the pro­ power-house will extend also, if necessary, to posed irrigation area are sinking into a the Burnett-Isis scheme, to get the project morass of debt which can be arrested only moving. by a continuity of production, and that can I was surprised to hear the hon. member only be brought about by the availability for Landsborough, who referred to himself of water. as an agricultural economist, bring forward Briefly, the Burnett scheme entails the figures that were completely out of date rela­ utilisation of the waters of both the Burnett tive to utilising Queensland's water resources and Kolan Rivers by a system of barrages, and suggest that Queensland believes it is storages and reticulation services, to serve lucky to receive $25,000,000 for the Fairbairn 1,458 farms ,in Stage 1 at a cost of Dam scheme on the Nogoa River from the $47,000,000. The lands proposed to be served $50,000,000 allocated by the Federal Govern­ by the scheme are those adjacent to the ment for all water conservation projects. In rivers named, and lands in the Isis district. fact, Queensland received only $20,000,000. The economics of the scheme are beyond As for the hon. member's attitude that this question. It has been exhaustively planned State was lucky to get $20,000,000, I point and investigated, approved by the Irrigation out that, taking into account what the and Water Supply Commission, accepted by Federal Government has paid to the States the State Government and accorded first in the last 20 years for utilisation of water priority. It has been submitted to the Com­ resources, $20,000,000 represents only a little monwealth Government on this basis with over 2 per cent. of the total amount of money a request for financial assistance. allocated. I hope that the hon. member's attitude that Queensland is lucky to have The justification for the implementation received that amount is not reflected in the of this scheme is abundantly clear when it case relative to the Burnett-Isis scheme put is shown that loss of production on these forward by representatives of the Queensland lands during the drought years of 1964 and Government to the Federal Government. 1965 totalled $19,000,000 in sugar production Their approach should not be so humble as to alone. It is difficult to calculate with accuracy suggest that Queensland believes it is lucky the losses in the present drought year because to get funds. The taxpayers in this State of the greatly fluctuating price of sugar have contributed for many years towards on the world market, even under the Inter­ schemes in other States, and it is time national Sugar Agreement. However, at the that the Government of Queensland made moment it appears that losses in sugar pro­ it clear to the Federal Treasury that it is duction in Isis will total $5,000,000, and asking for only a particle of what it is really that in Isis and Bundaberg combined the entitled to in return. losses could approximate $15,000,000. Thus The Snowy Mountains Authority, deve­ in three years of drought there have been loped under a Labour Government, was losses of approximately $34,000,000 in sugar intended to come to Queensland in its production alone, and all the scheme requires entirety, as a planning and constructing is $47,000,000, for full implementation to authority, to undertake the harnessing of Stage 1. To that sum of losses totalling Queensland's vast water resources. Such a $34,000,000 must be added losses from move would have recompensed the State to unemployment, and losses to associated some extent for its contributions to water industry and commerce. conservation in other States. However, There is no question about the merits of the thanks to the present Federal Government, scheme or the advisability of implementing the Snowy Mountains Authority now exists it. Apart from stabilising the area and pre­ only in part, as a planning authority. venting losses in sugar production, the scheme The hon. member for Landsborough said would stand on its own merits as a develop­ also that he would be interested to see what mental project. With the rich soils available other projects are currently before the Federal to be utilised for any purpose, the scheme Government for the $25,000,000 remaining 420 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

from the $50,000,000 allocated originally. who cannot raise even the 10 per cent. There is no $25,000,000 remaining. Mr. that is necessary for them to take advantage Fairbairn said before the last State election of this scheme. They are financed to the that the money had already been allocated. extent of 90 per cent. of the cost of the [Sitting suspended from 1 to 2.15 p.m.] scheme. As many of the areas in which water Mr. BLAKE: As I was saying, there is resources can be developed are presently no $25,000,000 remaining; it has already dry, I point out that the time is now oppor­ been allocated. As was indicated by Mr. tune for work to be done cheaply, and I Fairbairn in Federal Parliament, it has been ask the Government to consider allocating the allocated as follows: $20,000,000 to the full extent of the funds necessary for the Gwydir scheme; $3,600,000 for the River development of farm water supply assistance M urray salinity reduction scheme; schemes. If the further 10 per cent. were $4,000,000 for the King River Dam, Vic­ to be provided, the work could be performed toria, scheme; and $6,000,000 for the Tailem in dry periods and people in drought-stricken Bend to Keith pipeline, making a total of areas could make their repayments under the $33,600,000. With the $20,000,000 for the same terms as those applying under the Farm Fairbairn Dam, or the Nogoa scheme as it is known, the total amount is $53,600,000. Water Supplies Assistance Act. So hon. members can see that the money has In my electorate a number of drought­ already been allocated and any more funds stricken fruit growers have dying fruit trees that will be forthcoming for the Queens­ and others have either no crops or under­ land scheme will have to be allocated by the sized crops. I accept that all sections of Federal Government from other sources. industry face cost problems, but the time This morning I asked a question of the has come to disillusion the industry and the Premier about the composition of the delega­ Government of the concept that those tion to the National Development Committee problems can be overcome simply by passing in Canberra, and whether a senior member costs on to the primary producers. of the Government or a senior departmental An example of this exists at the Rocklea official would be included in it. His answer markets. A number of the local agents at was to the effect that there is no such the markets have increased their commission necessity at this time. I hope and trust that rates by 25 per cent. What other industry if the occasion arises, we will have top could increase its charges or the price of representation from the Queensland Govern­ its products by 25 per cent. in one fell ment at a political level to make further swoop? A number of conferences have been representations. In connection with the held on this matter. The latest one was Central Queensland power-house proposal, chaired by the late Premier and attended four senior departmental officers went to by the Minister for Primary Industries, three Canberra to talk the matter over with Federal Government officials. members of Parliament, representatives of the agents, and Mr. Fleweli-Smith, th~n qeneral Before leaving this subject, I point out Manager of the Committee of D1rectwn of that if the Burnett-Kolan-Isis scheme is imple­ Fruit Marketing, who represented the growers. mented, in terms of additional revenue, From that conference came the understanding additional industry and additional employ­ that agents would not increase their charges ment, relatively to cost it will be worth more above 10 per cent. It was understo?d to the State of Queensland than will the that if they did the Minister would exerc1se Central Queensland power-house. his prerogative under the Farm Produce Returning now to the State level and Agents Act to peg their commission rate and dealing with the State allocation of about other charges. $7,500,000 a year for irrigation, we know The fact that a number of the agents that State resources are strained, but we have increased their charges is an indication know also that $7,500,000 is not enough. to me and many growers that the agents Recent representations by me about the have betrayed their undertaking or the Mary River and Burrum elicited the fact understanding that emanated from that con­ that, according to the Irrigation and Water ference. Of course, it is a free market. Supply Commission, there are not enough The growers who are unhappy about being funds even to carry out an investigation. .charged more than 10 per cent. can take Emphasis is placed by this Government on their business to other agents. However, the development of secondary industry and the development of mineral resources to tide I would point out that these business con­ us over the dry periods in our economy. I nections have been built up over many years suggest that the development of our water and in some cases the connections have been resources calls for a bigger allocation than carried on from generation to generation. $7,500,000 a year. I believe that the growers have not changed I would be the last not to give credit from one agent to another because they where it is due and I openly admit that believe that the Minister for Primary Indus­ the Farm Water Supplies Assistance Act tries will invoke his powers and peg the scheme administered by the State Govern­ commission rate to 10 per cent. I request ment is a very good one indeed. At the him to do so. The agents who charge present time, because of drought, machinery the 10 per cent. impose additional charges is lying idle and there are many people for sorting, stacking, bank charges and Address in Reply [9 SEPTEMBER] Address in Reply 421 stationery and those additional costs can profitable, and if we are genuine about decen­ represent a further 2 per cent. If these tralisation, surely we must agree that provin­ charges had been imposed by the C.O.D. cial industries should receive the same that organisation would have received an treatment. extra $35,000 for the year. The City of I read a report last week, which probably Brisbane Market Act guaranteed the Bris­ most hon. members read, to the effect that a bane agents who moved to the Rocklea survey of the I.Q. of rural children showed markets a 10-year period free of competition that they were slightly below average. Under from other agents. If the agents want free­ a Labour Government such a survey would not have revealed the same result. People did dom from competition they cannot expect not have to be below average intelligence to to be able to increase their commission live in the country under a Labour Govern­ rates at the expense of the growers at will. ment. I do not agree with the findings of A breakdown of returns shows that farmers this survey, but wherever I go in the country, get nowhere near 7 per cent. on invested people who have lived there for some time tell me, without equivocation, that although capital and labour, which was the figure people do not have to be stupid to live in used in a recent cost survey to work out what the country, it is certainly a big help. agents were entitled to. Indeed a survey shows that the growers receive a minus Mr. LEE (Yeronga) (2.29 p.m.): My wife quantity as an investment percentage. Of joins with me and my constituents in express­ course, the agent who has a small single ing loyalty to Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth stand is in a disadvantageous position when n. compared with those with large multiple I congratulate the mover and seconder of stands, but the operators of a number of the motion for the adoption of the Address the small stands show that they are faring in Reply on their fine contributions to this well on a commission of 10 per cent. debate. No doubt we can look forward to At the present time fruit and vegetable many further interesting contributions from growers who are so hard hit by prices, and also these gentlemen. I also congratulate the new by adverse weather conditions, are told by Minister for Local Government and Elec­ this Government, "You are too small and tricity, Mr. Wally Rae. No doubt his plate you are not an economic unit. If you is full with his new portfolio, but he is a wish to survive you will have to grow good thinker. Above all, he is a broad thinker, larger." If that criterion applies to primary which is essential in a ministerial position. producers it should apply also to the agents at the Rocklea markets. In the six short years in which I have been in this House I have created two records. I now wish to speak briefly about decen­ First, I had the privilege of making the first tralisation, which in my electorate is working Address-in-Reply speech in the remodelled in reverse. Railway lines have been torn up Chamber that we enjoy today. Second, in and, recently, rail services were suspended. spite of all the bellyaching by A.L.P. mem­ This has caused workers from the country to bers about their conditions, I am the first move to Maryborough. The only alternative Government member who has had to have left to people is to move to the city. a table set up in a passageway in Parliament House. Why are members of the Opposition Industrial estates have been established, and crying about their conditions? These are the I pay credit to the Government for that. But conditions of today. from what I can gather, one of the prerequi­ As the general debate progresses it sites for railway freight rebates is that becomes more evident that members of the manufacturers must provide evidence of Opposition are concerned only with creating export orders for their products. It would be propaganda for their Federal election cam­ very difficult indeed for anyone to manufac­ paign. The first signs of this outlook came ture a product and then to go overseas and with the farce which was made of question get orders for it before establishing a factory. time in the opening weeks of this session. This prerequisite will not boost the industrial New members of the Opposition could be estates. Although other factors may, this one excused for wondering what their job in certainly will not. this Parliament is supposed to be. They probably think it is nothing but to ask I ask hon. members to compare this condi­ questions. During the past week or so we tion as it applies to provincial businesses with have heard from the Opposition a series the concessions granted to established firms of half-truths, half-lies, all designed to competing with them. Earlier in this debate influence the outcome of the Federal we heard of city firms receiving freight con­ election. cessions that enabled them to compete successfully-indeed, in many cases more than Mr. TUCKER: I rise to a point of order. successfully-with provincial businesses. If I deny that the Opposition has given half­ we compare the concessions that the Queens­ lies to this House at any time. I ask land provincial industries get with those the hon. member to withdraw that state­ enjoyed by foreign investors, which the hon. ment. member for Barcoo proved are tailored, Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The Deputy freight-wise, by the Government, to suit the Leader of the Opposition denies the truth foreign investors to make their ventures of what the hon. member said. 422 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

Mr. LEE: It is only because of your Mr. LEE: The hon. member will hear position, Mr. Speaker, that I withdraw the about it, and he will wish he had not made remark. But I will withdraw it. that interjection. The ordinary people find this sort of thing very hard to believe. Any­ Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The hon. member one who cares to check what I have to for Y eronga has passed a remark that is say from start to finish will find it very offensive to the Opposition, and he must factual. To relieve this pressure, an official withdraw it unconditionally. of the Australian Labour Party in Brisbane, Mr. Tom Burns, wrote a letter to the Mr. LEE: I withdraw it unconditionally. Bulimba brewery in which he suggested that, Of course, we have had Mr. Whitlam if that company did not take its account around the place with his story-telling. from this public relations consultant, the Mr. P. Wood: Are you going to read all Labour Party would place a black ban on of this? its products. That is absolute political black­ mail. Even Joe Stalin would have hesitated Mr. LEE: Before the day is out, the hon. before doing that. Hitler would have done member will be sorry that I have spoken. it, but he would have thought about it first. It is worth recording at this time, so Things have reached a pretty low level that we might put Mr. Whitlam back where when political blackmail is used to try to. do he belongs, that on Labour Day he a public relations consultant out of a JOb. was the leader of the Trades Hall march in After all, he is merely doing the work at which 50 Vietnam flags were carried and which he earns his living. waved vigorously and with gusto by members That reminds me of the position in 1957 of the Opposition. It should be recorded in when the A.L.P. was in Government and "Hansard" also that he did not march when any policeman who had the audacity alone at the head of this procession. Some to do anything the A.L.P. did not like found prominent members of the A.L.P. in this himself transferred to Boulia or some other House were by his side. It is history that far distant place. That is the type of desperate bids were made after the march political pressure brought by A.L.P. members; to disclaim the "Laver mob". But the facts they can deny it, but they cannot get away are that they were given permission to from it. It is surely a denial of human march, and it was only the public outcry rights. Pressure on this side of the House that led to later denials. Nobody can dis­ is generally related to the activi~ies of und.er­ prove that. world organisations, and not maJor Austrah!ln It was only a few days ago that a story political parties. Hon. members opposite appeared in "The Courier-Mail" about an ought to be ashamed of themselves. attack on the Prime Minister of Australia by It is most unlikely that this was the idea the North Vietnamese delegation to the Paris of Mr. Burns, and it certainly was not the talks for the role played by Australia in the idea of anyone in the Opposition, because all Vietnam war. The same spokesman praised they do is take instructions. I do not believe the rat-bag groups in Australia for their that it was Mr. Whitlam's idea because he support of the Viet Cong. No doubt he and Opposition members are in tht? same was remembering such events as the 1969 boat. The point is that it was the Idea of Brisbane Labour Day procession. the A.L.P. and all associated with that I am not saying that all Labour supporters party must' share the responsibility for: it. are supporters of the Viet Cong. In fact, They cannot dodge it. This is a very senous I know that this is not so. But surely it is matter and I should like some members not right to accept the association of these of th~ Opposition to get up and tell us extreme Left-wing, anti-Australian organi­ how it sickens them, too, but they are not sations with the political fortunes of the game to do that. They would have their A.L.P. Why does not a member of the heads lopped off if they did. Opposition get up and say that he is I might mention that the company has ashamed of the events of the 1969 Labour rejected that letter. It is certain that there Day procession? Why does not someone will be some back-pedalling by the A.L.P. get up and admit it? That is the because the public relations consultant is a trouble with them. They do these things member-- and then want them hushed up and kept quiet. It is obvious to me that the people Mr. Davies: Who was it? in charge of the A.L.P. have very few Mr. LEE: I am glad the hon. member has scruples. I am not speaking about anyone asked that. He is Mr. Bingham, the man on the Opposition benches, because it is well who defended the Premier against the scan­ known that all they do is take instructions. dalous, filthy personal attacks made upon him They are not allowed to speak their own during the last election campaign. The hon. minds. member knows how scandalous and personal Some pressure has been put on the A.L.P. the attack was, and it shows what hon. in recent months through the operations of members opposite will stoop to. I am game a Brisbane public relations consultant, and to name him at any time. the A.L.P. has taken some drastic actions It is certain also that there will be some to relieve this pressure. backpedalling by the A.L.P., because the Mr. Davies: What is the pressure? public relations consultant is a member of Address in Reply (9 SEPTEMBER] Address in Reply 423 the Australian Journalists' Association and progressing, if its destinies were controlled that organisation is taking an active interest by the A.L.P.? What chance would this in the matter-! will bet that shocks hon. wonderful State have? members opposite-and is not averse to Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: That is why the imposing bans, just as the A.L.P. has threat­ A.L.P. haven't a Government in Australia. ened to impose bans. Hon. members oppo­ site would look silly if they did not have Mr. LEE: That is right. the support of the Press over the next few Mr. Tucker: Tell us about Mr. Connolly. years. One could be excused for wondering Mr. LEE: The hon. member has a great whether some sections of the A.L.P. should deal to tell his mates up on the hill. He be living in Czechoslovakia where the little could tell the House about Eric Lloyd, while men of the party are the big men of power­ he is at it. I repeat: where the little men of the party I was interested to study some of the are the big men of power. speeches made in this House by members of the Opposition. Because of my appreciation Mr. Bromley: Say it again. of contracting, I was particularly interested Mr. LEE: The hon. member is only a in the speech made by the hon. member for little man. I remind the House that in Mackay and I was astounded to hear him Czechoslovakia the rights of the individual compare the financing of the Goonyella are nil. project with that of a sugar mill. Sugar mills are going concerns, and have ready outlets, Only a few weeks ago the A.L.P. axemen but the Goonyella project is not yet off the lopped off the head of an old and faithful ground although millions of dollars have servant when selecting their team to contest already been invested on search and testing. the next Senate election, and Senator Dittmer That is the difference. goes into political exile unhonoured and unsung. The hon. member is rather like the man who wants to back a winner at the best price Mr. Ramsden: Unwanted-despite his after it has passed the post. The annual services to the Party. report of the Moura mine, issued recently shows a loss of more than $2,000,000. This Mr. LEE: Unwanted. The tragedy of the mine has been exporting coal for more than Australian way of thinking is that Senator five years, but not too many people would be Dittmer recognises the axing as part of the interested in investing in it today. Hon. operation of the machine to which he members opposite are always crying about belonged and which he had served for so what somebody makes. long. Undoubtedly he is a very bitter man, Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: It gives employment but he knows that there is nothing he can do about it. He cannot buck the great party to 600 men. machine. Again I say that it is similar to Mr. LEE: That is right. To hear hon. the position in the suppressed countries of members opposite speaking of mineral Europe, ,in which the party machine is all­ development one would think that all one had powerful and the individual does not count to do was to put some money in and pull it for anything-not a thing! That is the state out again with great heaps of profit. This is of the A.L.P. today. far from true. In mining many millions of Mr. Wallis-Smith: Tell us about the Liberal dollars are sunk on negative search and test­ Party. ing and a tremendous amount of spade work is done on projects in which few people today Mr. LEE: I am told that the hon. member would want to have any equity. It is true to was coming down for the Labour Day march say that many Australians would not want but he hurt his leg. In fact, I heard the equity in these mines when they are in their story, Mr. Speaker, that he was going to infancy, as most of them are. fight Mr. Gough Whitlam for one of the I was disappointed that the hon. member flags. He wanted to be in front of him. for Mackay did not come out and say what a I have mentioned three points-the waving good thing the Goonyella-Hay Point project and carrying of the Viet Cong flag; political will be for his district, but he did not. blackmail; the axing of an old and faithful Mr. P. Wood: Read his speech. servant-which have occurred in this State in the past three months. Hon. members Mr. LEE: I read his speech; the hon. mem­ opposite are very quiet; it is unusual for them ber has not to tell me what he said. I am to be quiet while I am speaking. I must quite capable of reading for myself. Like his have stunned them with the truth. I have predecessor in the House he was opposed to mentioned those three points only to empha­ this project whereas, as a contractor, he sise how the A.L.P. operates and to prove should know its value to the district. That is it to the public once and for all. The the least he should know. While politically A.L.P. will chop off the heads of its mem­ he is on side with the A.L.P. in their policy bers as quickly as one can snap one's fingers. of opposition to foreign investment, I will bet my socks that he is already costing the What chance would this country have of work or getting ready to tender for some of holding its present prosperity, let alone of it, if he has not already done so. Perhaps I 424 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

should qualify that by adding, if he is capable Mr. LEE: If I cracked the hon. member's of tendering for it or of costing the job, skull there would be no metal in it, only because, from what I am told, if he does not sawdust. pull some stops out very soon he will lose a The value of Main Roads Department job he has contracted for and put another approval for contracts during the year was bad mark on the contracting system. increased by $1,700,000 to $9,900,000, which I should like to speak now about beef represents 25 per cent. of the total Govern­ roads. During the recess-the hon. member ment expenditure. Approvals for day labour for Warrego knows this-I had an extensive were increased by $2,500,000 to $29,200,000. trip over the beef roads of Queensland. Day labour received $29,200,000 compared with the $9,900,000 received by contracts. Mr• .Bromley: Is that why all your constitu­ I am extremely disappointed to find that, ents say you are neglecting your job? after 12 years in office, the Government is merely paying lip service to its so-called free­ Mr. LEE: It is a pity the hon. member enterprise policy. I cannot agree with it. would not get out of his city electorate of Norman and broaden his mind which is about If, when I have finished quoting these 2 inches wide by 1 inch deep. With my wife figures, any Government member says that and two friends, I had the privilege of going we are giving a fair deal to free enterprise, he over virtually all the beef roads in Queens­ is nothing but a Socialist and he should land and I can say, "Thank God that this join his Socialistic comrades on the Opposi­ Government had the foresight to put in these tion benches. I know that the cry is that we beef roads." must look after the local people, and I will When we go into the West, the Mid-west deal with that later. Never have I said, and and the North-west of the State we see the never will I say, that I want 100 per cent. shocking effects that the drought has had contract work. But let us reverse the figures on people who live in those areas. It is to 7 5 per cent. contract and 25 per cent. quite heart-breaking to see starving stock day labour. Then we as a Government being transported in stock trains. When could hold our heads high on our policy, which, each year, we claim is a free-enterprise motoring on one of the beef roads every few miles one passes a stock train trans­ policy. porting starving stock. If this Government Mr. Davies: You are thinking only of your had not had the foresight to construct beef own purse. roads the graziers would have had to watch their stock die on their properties and then Mr. LEE: I have no connection with any go completely broke. At least, with good earth-moving company anywhere in Queens­ markets in the South and in Adelaide, the land or Australia, or the world. stock trains can transport the starving stock I feel that I should now incorporate in to Sydney or out through Camooweal and my speech some figures to substantiate the Alice Springs down to Adelaide. rather drastic statement I have just made. We owe a great debt to the late Ernie An Opposition Member: What drastic Evans. He was able to persuade the Govern­ statement? ment of the day to construct a bitumen strip 12 feet wide through the western Mr. LEE: The hon. member will know portions of the State. If that bitumen strip when the "mob on the hill" get him. had not been constructed the track would The following table sets out clearly what have been like the country through which I am trying to outline- it runs, a dust bowl. The forward thinking in constructing that bitumen strip has saved Contract the Government literally millions of dollars Year Day-labour Contract Percentage in maintenance costs. I think the hon. member for Barcoo would agree with that, $ $ 1961-62 17,200,000 5,400,000 24 although I know that he does not like to 1962-63 21,000,000 7,300,000 26 agree with anything I say because he is 1963-64 24,600 000 14,100,000 36 1964-65 23,300,000 7,900,000 25 frightened that he might have his head 1965-66 23,300,000 5,000,000 18 lopped off. 1966-67 28,800,000 12,000,000 29 1967-68 26,700,000 8,200,000 23 Mr. Davies interjected. 1968-69 29,2oo,ooo I 9,900,000 25

Mr. LEE: I am told that the hon. member It will be seen that in 1962-63, 26 per for Maryborough is another Opposition mem­ cent. of the work was done by contract ber who wanted to get down into the front and, in 1963-64, 36 per cent., which was the of the line. Just as well he didn't. I do highest ever. not think his leader would have appreciated his being out in front. Mr. Hodges: What sort of work is this? I turn now to a matter that I raise year Mr. LEE: It was remote Main Roads after year, that of day labour versus contract. Department work, not Housing Commission or similar work. I believe that 75 per cent. Mr. Bromley: Tell us a bit more about of Housing Commission work is now being blue metal. done by contract. Address in Reply [9 SEPTEMBER 1 Address in Reply 425

In 1966-67 contract work represented 29 wasted in this State by not increasing the per cent. of the total, whereas in 1961-62, percentage of contract work. While I am a 24 per cent. was done by contract. In member of this Parliament I shall fight for 196S-69, 25 per cent was done by contract­ this cause; it is not a fight for free enter­ an increase of only 1 per cent. Admittedly prise but to save this State millions of dollars. the amount of money involved has increased, This, in turn, will mean the construction but a percentage increase is much more of thousands of miles of road which the desirable than a monetary increase. In Opposition claims the Government has not 1961-62 expenditure totalled $22,600,000, built. Yet the Opposition turns around and whereas today it totals $39,100,000. It is advocates the day-labour system! The essential that a greater percentage of the Opposition cannot "knock" with one hand work be given to contractors. The industry and take with the other. cannot last, nor can it be successful when the percentages are up one year and down Mr. Davies: The best roads were built the next; conditions are impossible for those by day labour. in the industry with a stop-go policy. Each Mr. LEE: The best roads in the State were year there should be a gradual increase in built when I was contracting. the work given to contractors so that those in the industry can buy plant and work it I have further figures I wish to quote. to the maximum advantage. Hon. members They are to the nearest $100,000. opposite will agree with that. Mr. O'Donnell: How many contractors Mr. Casey: What was the percentage in have gone broke? 1956-57? Mr. LEE: Dozens, but that is the very Mr. LEE: I have not got the figures. life of free enterprise. Mr. Blake: It was more than your Govern­ Mr. Davies: Which Minister do you blame ment was spending. for this situation? Mr. Casey: It was a far higher percentage Mr. LEE: I blame nobody for it. I am then than it is now. simply giving my views, and I hope that they are listened to because they are backed up Mr. LEE: I will not argue this. I do by figures. I do not pull figures out of not know the answer. I will gh~;dly discuss the air as many Opposition members do. the matter with the hon. member later to see if in fact what he said is correct. I have some figures here to illustrate what I am saying. In 1964-65, the total estimate Mr. Davies: The firm you belong to-- of work going to contract was $7,900,000, and Mr. LEE: As I said before, I do not belong it was let out at a contract price of $5,600,000. to any firm in Queensland, in Australia, or In 1965-66, the total estimate of contract in the world. Does that get through the work was $5,000,000, and the contract price hon. member's thick skull? at which it was let was $3,500,000. In 1966-67, the total estimate of contract work The hon. member for Hawthorne has asked was $12,000,000, and the contract price was me what the saving to the Government would $9,200,000. In 1967-68, the total estimate of be. Statistics prove that contracts represented contract work was $7,600,000, and there was only 25 per cent. of the over-all expenditure an estimate of $600,000 for the expressway last year despite the fact that during the past at Kangaroo Point. The contract price was five years $131,000,000 was allocated to day­ $5,700,000, and the price for work on the labour work. The estimated-! repeat expressway was $500,000. In 1968-69, the "estimated"-cost of the work let to con­ total estimate of contract work was tract in that period was $43,000,000. The $8,100,000, and there was an estimate of contract price, when the jobs came out, $1,800,000 for the Rocklea overpass-for was $32,000,000. That represents a saving which I am eternally grateful to the Minister of $10,000,000 in five years. and which is now, many years overdue, being If the reverse had been applied and constructed. The contract price was $131,000,000 had been allocated to contract $6,000,000, and $1,500,000 for the overpass, work and $32,000,000 to day-labour work, representing a saving of $300,000 on that one the saving to this State would have been not project alone. less than $40,000,000 in five years. That is No jobs for which tenders have been called more than one year's programme for the have been transferred to day labour during Main Roads Department. Nobody can argue the year. I suggest that the hon. member for against these figures, because they are taken Mackay pull out a couple of stops and get from the Queensland Government Gazette. going or he will lose the job. Mr. Chinchen: The saving would be greater Mr. Casey: Oh, no. than that because time and again the day­ labour cost exceeds the estimate. Mr. LEE: Do not say, "Oh, no." The hon. member is down here instead of being Mr. LEE: That is right. I can only take up there looking after the job. One day I the figures that appear in the Queensland shall get together with the hon. member and Government Gazette. As the hon. member try to find out how he can justify sitting on for Mt. Gravatt says, nobody will ever know the A.LP. benches and being a contractor as how many millions of dollars have been well. I cannot understand how he can be 426 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

subservient to A.L.P. principles against those claims to speak on behalf of private con­ of a free-enterprise system. He is either a tractors, and it is true to say that the good A.L.P. member or a bad contractor; he contractors pick the plums out of the work cannot be both. that is available. Only one contract for a small bridge, for Mr. Lee: You haven't the slightest idea which the contract price was $12,980, was what goes on. won by a local authority in competition with private contractors. Each year the Govern­ Mr. MELLOY: One does not find them con­ ment is doing work by day labour. Do we see tracting for work on which there is any the Lord Mayor of Brisbane, Clem Jones, who element of doubt about the margin of profit. is supposed to be shackled with the principles The hon. member for Yeronga has proved of the A.L.P. and imbued with the socialistic over the years that he has been in this outlook of gentlemen on the other side of Chamber that he is one of the greatest the House, having work done by day labour? "knockers" of the workers in this State. In Certainly not. At least 7 5 per cent. of the fact, he is equalled only by several other work of the Brisbane City Council is done by members of the Liberal Party. contract, and the rest is basically maintenance. That is the very thing for which I have asked. I wish to deal with a number of matters Most of the work done today by the Brisbane in my contribution to this debate. First, I City Council by day labour is work that the wish to make an appeal to the Minister for Government hands it on a platter. I instance Health relative to the Autistic Children's work at Moorooka and on the Sandgate Road. Association, which caters for children in this I was promised that that work would go to State to whom the present Government contract, but it went to the Brisbane City refuses to give recognition. The Minister Council under a day-labour system. buries his head in the sand whenever the question is raised. The Autistic Children's Mr. Davies: Why would you be promised Association has met him in conference and that? he has refused consistently to assist it in any way. The work being carried out by the Mr. LEE: Because I asked for it by means association is voluntary, and it provides of a letter. There is a second section of that treatment for autistic children that they road to be built, and I understand that it would not otherwise receive. looks as though it will be done by the Brisbane City Council by day labour. In his replies to questions that I have (Time expired.) submitted to him the Minister has told the House that the ~hildren are being catered Mr. MELLOY (Nudgee) (3.10 p.m.): First, for in a wider field of psychiatric and educa­ I express my loyalty, and the loyalty of the tional endeavour and that it is unnecessary people of the Nudgee electorate, to Her to duplicate subsidised services in Queens­ Majesty the Queen. land. It has been made very clear by the association in its approaches to the Minister I thank the electors of Nudgee for the that the treatment that these children require record majority with which they returned is not available to them in any of the Govern­ me at the last State election. The circum­ stances were a little exceptional because, ment institutions or organisations. although there was an increased enrolment in Mr. Ramsden: That is not true, you know. the electorate, the Liberal Party polled the lowest number of votes it has ever polled Mr. MELLOY: It is true, as I shall point and the A.L.P. polled the highest number out. The fact that such children in Gov­ of votes it has ever polled in Nudgee. That ernment institutions are treated in association is an indication of the attitude of the people with children who have similar complaints as a whole to the Australian Labour Party, but who are not, in fact, autistic children, despite the remarks of the hon. member for militates against their treatment. Autistic Y eronga and the aspersions that he cast at children need specific and individual treat­ the A.L.P. ment which they do not receive as part of It is extraordinary that, despite all its the treatment given to children in the institu­ supposed faults, the A.L.P. claims the tions in this State. support of the high~st number of people in Queensland and 1s acknowledged and There is only one association that ade­ acclaimed by them as the most reliable quately cares for these children and that party in the political field. is the Autistic Children's Association. The attitude of the Minister and this Govern­ I am surprised that the hon. member for ment is, in fact, in sharp contrast to the Y eronga is leaving the Chamber. He treatment of autism in other States of Aus­ apparently thinks that discretion is the better tralia, where this condition is officially recog­ part of valour. However, I wish to refer nised by the Health Departments. Whereas to several of the remarks that he made. in Queensland this Government makes no The hon. member is traditionally a contribution whatever to the work carried "knocker" of the engineers and other out by the autistic association, in other employees of the Main Roads Department, States a great deal of assistance is given. and he attacks them every time he rises to I shall cite what is provided in the other his feet in this Chamber. The hon. member States of Australia. Address in Reply [9 SEPTEMBER] Address in Reply 427

In New South Wales the State Govern­ health, and no matter what amount is spent ment provides a subsidy of $2 for each dollar in this State, the fact remains that the raised by the voluntary organisations which Governments of the other States contribute treat autistic children in that State. In addi­ to the Autistic Children's Association and tion to this, a subsidy of $1,950 a year this Government, irrespective of what it for a qualified teacher and $1,400 a year spends on health generally, contributes for an unqualified teacher is paid to the absolutely nothing. That is the comparison. autistic association to provide treatment for Mr. Ramsden: That is not true. The these children. The Government also pays Minister gave you the facts in an answer a conveyance subsidy of 20 cents per loaded to a question. mile for the transport of these children to the centres where they are treated. Mr. MELLOY: The Minister did not give In Victoria, the Government is much more me that information in an answer. In fact, generous. A subsidy of $4 for each dollar he evaded the points in my question. raised by the association is paid by the I appeal to the Minister for Health to Government, and it is paid on all buildings take another look at the situation. The and on the purchase of equipment for the autistic children deserve assistance. The autistic centre. In addition, the autistic treatment that is being given to them by association receives $780 per annum for each their association is the only treatment that child treated, with a minimum of eight is effective. The children need a nursing children, and a further $860 per annum ratio of one teacher to one child, and they as a transport subsidy. do not get it in the Government institutions in which they are placed. They are treated In Tasmania, the assistance is not as great in conjunction with children who suffer from as in the other two States but accommoda­ other complaints. tion is provided for the autistic association. I turn now to the matter raised by the What a great contrast there is between hon. member for Wavell, the hospital system assistance elsewhere and the very shabby of this State. He has called for an investi­ treatment accorded to autistic children in gation into Queensland's hospital system, this State by this Government. It costs and he has been supported by the Australian the Queensland Autistic Children's Associa­ Medical Association. There is an old saying, tion approximately $6,500 per year to run "Beware of Greeks bearing gifts." We should its centre in Brisbane and this money is beware of the A.M.A. when it bears the raised by the hard work of its members gifts of co-operation and endorsement of and the generosity of many service associa­ A.L.P. policies. There is more to it than tions in Queensland. It survives by the good meets the eye when the A.M.A. commits graces of service organisations such as Apex, itself to an investigation of this nature, Rotary, Lions, the Quota Club, and with the because it is well known that the A.M.A. help of the University Students' Union, the has as one of its objectives the abolition of Jewish Ladies Society, the Greek Ladies the free-hospitals system in this State. It Society, insurance companies, bank societies is opposed to that system, which has been and many others, but receives not one cent enunciated by the A.L.P., and one of its from this Government, which refuses to objectives is to have the system reviewed acknowledge the work done by it. I have with a view to breaking it down or com­ told hon. members of the extent of the help pletely abolishing it. that is given by the Governments of other Over the years the A.L.P. has asked States to this association, which has achieved for an inquiry into Queensland's hospital tremendous success in the treatment of autistic system, and time and time again its requests children. have been rejected by successive Ministers Mr. Miller: What amount of money has for Health simply because they have been been spent on health by the other States ill advised. Of course, the Minister is not compared with Queensland? Are you com­ a medical man and he must depend on his paring an over-all health scheme or just departmental heads for any statements he one section of it? makes or the policy he follows concerning the Queensland hospital system. Mr. MELLOY: If I adopted the attitude of some Ministers, I would tell the hon. We in the A.L.P. agree that there should member that the information he seeks is be an inquiry into the Queensland hospital available in the records of the various other system, purely on the basis of improving the Governments. service given to patients. Attention must be given to the staffing of hospitals, the training Mr. Miller: You don't know. You know of nurses and the availability of medical staff nothing about it. because here lie some of the greatest faults in our hospital system. Mr. MELLOY: I have told hon. members what has been done. The hon. member for Wavell stated that Mr. Miller: What amount is spent on he could make our hair curl if he were to health in New South Wales? tell us of instances relating to hospital ramifi­ cations. I will help him a little. Hon. mem­ Mr. MELLOY: What has that got to do bers may recall that earlier this year I drew with it? However, no matter what amount public attention to the case of a young girl of money is spent in the other States on who was referred on three occasions to the 428 Address in Reply (ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply general hospital by her local medical adviser Mr. MELLOY: An excellent candidate, for an appendix operation. The three visits and an absolute gentleman. In the campaign to the hospital were made in 10 days, and on he was attacked by innuendo and insinuation each occasion the operation was refused in a way that does not become the average although her medical adviser considered that Australian. I have in my hand a pamphlet she should have an immediate appendix issued by the hon. member for Kurilpa. It operation. The girl's parents then referred her, is headed- as did her doctor, to a specialist, who operated "Hughes your Liberal member is an immediately on the girl. It is interesting that Australian." the specialist who considered her to be in need of an immediate operation was none Nobody doubted that he is an Australian. other than the hon. member for Wave!!. He It was therefore unnecessary for him to was the specialist who, after the hospital put a heading on his pamphlet to convince refused to carry out the operation, decided the electors of Kurilpa that he is an Aus­ that it was immediately necessary, and carried tralian. Obviously, his motive was, by it out, much to the betterment of the girl implication, to suggest that his opponent concerned. might not be an Australian. It is little wonder that the hon. member for Mr. Porter: Does he say that in his Wavell has come here with a chip on his pamphlet? shoulder about our hospitals. I should say that he is very knowledgeable so far as our Mr. MELLOY: The hon. member is belit­ hospitals are concerned, and I have no doubt tling his own level of intelligence. that when he really launches an attack on the Mr. Porter: Don't you think you are mak­ Government about our hospital system he will ing a mountain out of a molehill? make the Minister's hair curl. Mr. MELLOY: No. The average Aus­ Mr. Porter: You have it wrong. The hon. tralian, and certainly members of the A.L.P., member for Wavell was very careful. He do not do such things, and if anybody does attacked the system, not the Government or descend to that level and adopt such a tactic, the Minister. it should be brought out into the open in Mr. MELLOY: That is quite right. As I this Chamber. That tactic was adopted by the said, when he really unleashes his attack it hon. member for Kurilpa. will be on the Government and the Minister. In addition, in his list of qualities or The Minister cannot escape responsibility qualifications in the pamphlet, the hon. mem­ for the policy that is followed and, to that ber included- extent, for the conditions existing at the "Ciive Hughes is above all a true Aus- hospitals. If the Minister does not know the tralian." conditions at hospitals he is extremely ill­ That emphasises what I said a few moments advised. The hon. member for Wave!I is just ago. It ill becomes a member of this Parlia­ the person to put him wise about what is ment to stoop to such tactics and cast asper­ going on in the hospitals of Queensland. For sions on the bona fides of an opposing years the Opposition tried to impress on the candidate. That indicates what fear will Minister the importance of these matters. drive people to. Because of the Minister's lack of knowledge of his portfolio-! do not altogether blame Mr. Porter: What was the verdict of the him for that because he is not a medical man electors? and must depend on his advisers, who very often are not reliable in the light of the Mr. MELLOY: It was a very close result, information they have given him-he must which vindicated the character of the A.L.P. accept responsibility for his department and candidate. the hospitals. I shall now say a few words on a subject I have raised several times with the Minister I shall now deal with a matter that dis­ for Transport, namely, the working conditions tresses me. I do not like speaking on such at the Northgate railway workshops. The a matter. It involves action which, as a building is a ramshackle, white-ant-riddled rule, is contrary to the nature of the average structure which is falling to pieces. Australian and to all sense of fair play. However, it illustrates the depths to which an Mr. Knox: It is a disgrace. individual will go when he is frightened of losing his seat in Parliament. It is extra­ Mr. MELLOY: Yes, it is a disgrace. I ordinary that a person considered to be an thank the Minister for that admission, average type can, when stricken with fear, although I know he is being sarcastic. display an entirely different nature. The Mr. Knox: I am not. It is a disgrace. Australian Labour Party endorsed a candidate for the metropolitan seat of Kurilpa in the Mr. MELLOY: The Minister will now most recent State election. The candidate probably make the statement that it was was of European parentage but was born inherited from an Australian Labour Party in Australia. He had proved himself to be Government; I can see his mind working 100 per cent. Australian. along those lines now. The fact is that this Government has had 12 years to do some­ Mr. Hanlon: And a v·ery good candidate. thing about it. Address in Reply (9 SEPTEMBER} Address in Reply 429

Mr. Knox: You want to see some of the Mr. TOMKINS (Roma) (3.39 p.m.): I other things that we have had to do some­ should like to express on my own behalf, thing about, too. and on behalf of the electors of Roma, loyalty to Her Most Gracious Majesty, Mr. MELLOY: Yes, I will admit that. Queen Elizabeth II. I also wish to say how However, nothing has been done at North­ much I appreciated the Opening Speech of gate. Just across the road from the work­ His Excellency the Administrator which set shops are partly completed buildings which out matters for consideration this session. it seems are to remain in that state, if the I regret that Sir William Mack was not Government continues to own them. The able to perform the opening ceremony, and Government is, of course, gradually selling I certainly wish him a speedy return to railway buildings, some completed and some good health. His Excellency the Governor, partly completed, to outside interests, instead Sir Alan Mansfield, and Lady Mansfield of retaining them for the development of have been away for a well-earned rest, and the railway system. I look forward to welcoming them on their In the workshops at Northgate there are return to this State in the near future. no washing or lunch-room facilities for the I congratulate the two new Country Party staff, who wash their hands at a tap and Ministers on their elevation to Cabinet. The sit on upturned buckets. There is no Honourable Neville Hewitt, the member for ablution block. In this building there is Mackenzie, is now Minister for Conservation, also very valuable machinery which is not Marine and Aboriginal Affairs, and he is protected from the weather. Despite appeals doing a first-class job. Of course, he has to the Minister to do something about this been interested in these matters for so long situation, he refuses to take any action; that he could not help doing a good job. I always the matter is "under consideration". welcome particularly the appointment of the It has been "under consideration" for the Honourable Wally Rae, the member for last 12 years, and still the men there are Gregory, as Minister for Local Government working under unsavoury conditions that and Electricity. I think it is fitting that a would not be tolerated in private industry. member representing the electorate of Gregory If the men at Northgate worked for a should be appointed to that position. He, private employer, the building would be too, will do a first-class job, and I have no condemned and the employer would be doubt that history will prove that I am right prosecuted. The Government seems to think in saying that. that it can get away with these conditions. I appeal to the Minister to do something Honourable members have a habit of say­ about them. He has available partly com­ ing, "Thanks to my electors for returning me pleted buildings to which the workshops with an increased majority." I should like to could be transferred, where the men could thank electors of the Roma electorate in be provided with proper working conditions. exactly the same way. Having become a Mr. Knox: This is the first time you have member of Parliament at a by-election held become seriously interested in any social two years before the last election, I was problem in that area. returned on this occasion with a greatly increased majority. All I can say is that Mr. MELLOY: To contradict that state­ people living in my electorate think a lot of ment by the Minister, I point out that I the policies of the present Government. was returned with a record majority this year. Apparently the people of Nudgee In addition, I congratulate my friend the do not feel that I have taken no interest in hon. member for Balonne, who moved the them. In fact, I take a tremendous interest motion for the adoption of the Address in in the welfare of the Nudgee electorate. Reply, and the hon. membe~ for Wavell, Dr. Crawford, who seconded It. They both Mr. Knox: And apparently some of the made excellent speeches because they spoke Nundah electorate, too. about subjects with which they are familiar. Mr. Hungerford has had years of experience Mr. MELLOY: If I get the opportunity, in local-authority work, and he spoke with yes. The Minister says that I apparently a wide knowledge of his subject. Dr. Craw­ take some interest in the Nundah electorate. ford spoke in a similar way, and I think it. is That is true, because if I did not the people of Nundah would be very much neglected. At desirable that members should deal with the same time, if the Minister comes into matters with which they are familiar. the Nudgee electorate I am not rude to him. Mr. Houston: Who do you think is right­ I shake his hand and welcome him, because Dr. Crawford, or the Minister? Whose side I realise that he must come to Nudgee at are you on? times to see how well things can be done. Mr. TOMKINS: I think that Dr. Crawford, I again appeal to the Minister to take with his experience of health matters, has some action in relation to the Northgate every right to come into this Chamber and workshops. I also appeal to the Minister say what he did. for Health to give consideration to the Autistic Children's Association and provide Mr. Houston: And you agree that what he it with the assistance that it really needs. said is right? 430 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

Mr. TOMKINS: I do not know whether Mr. TOMKINS: It is the old story that he is right, but I was interested in what he you can give a high rate if not much money said and time will prove whether or not he is involved. is right. Mr. Houston: But you are spending more I referred earlier to the new Minister for of the ratepayers' money, aren't you? Local Government and Electricity, and I am pleased that the Leader of the Opposition is Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr. Hooper): in the Chamber because he made quite a Order! I ask the hon. member to address number of remarks about the speech made by the chair. the hon. member for Balonne in moving the motion for the adoption of the Address in Mr. TOMKINS: The hon. member for Reply. The Leader of the Opposition spoke Warrego agrees with my thinking because of his visits to local authorities and how well he says that local authorities do a first-class they looked after him. However, he made job and that councillors are very good fel­ one or two statements that I could not follow. lows. I agree with this. In the Minister's area the shire councils probably do a better I agree with him that local authorities and shire councils are composed mainly of job than is done in the nearer areas. They have picture shows, hotels, cafes-- Country Party supporters, and I do not see anything wrong with that. Most of the coun­ Mr. Ramsden: Dick Wood does a fan­ cillors attend the meetings, receive a small tastic job in Logan. allowance, and put in a great deal of time on local-authority matters. They receive very Mr. TOMKINS: Many of them do. I little reward in the financial sense, and they think the experience one gains in local show a great deal of public spirit. I have government fits one particularly well for never noticed the "rocking the boat" to which the job one has to do here. the Leader of the Opposition referred. Most I should like to refer now to three matters shire councils with which I have had anything that concern me most. I congratulate the to do come to Brisbane and put their case as Minister for Education on his decision to strongly as possible if they want something install video recorders and the necessary from the Government. One can go to almost accessory equipment as an educational pro­ any of the western areas and see-this is ject for students in areas beyond TV what the Leader of the Opposition referred reception. We had a display, or an opening, to-very up-to-date and modern shire offices, on 14 July. Roma happened to be the greatly improved main roads, and many area chosen and it was very pleasing to me secondary roads. I shall not mention grants that this area was selected for the first pro­ received from the Federal Government. ject. It is also pleasing to find that in the Mr. Hom.ton: Will you agree that many Roma electorate, apart from the Roma shire chairmen are also prominent Country Primary School and the Roma High School, Party members? schools with secondary tops at Injune, Wal­ lambilla, Taroom and Wandoan also have Mr. TOMKINS: Yes. the system installed. This will give the Mr. Houston: They talk about not playing children in these areas the same oppor­ politics, but on the other hand they are active tunities as apply in the city areas. This in politics. shows the decentralisation that has taken place so far as the Education Department Mr. TOMKINS: I know quite a number is concerned. who do not take any interest in politics at This decision is very wise and I am hope­ all. ful that as television moves out further, the Mr. Houston: The hon. member for system will be extended. The Education Balonne was a shire councillor and Country Department, far from stagnating, is doing Party member. an extremely good job. Mr. TOMKINS: So was I, but I do not Another education matter to which I think this influences one's thinking. If the should like to refer is that of school bus hon. member's party was in power, we would services. This is a fantastic system that has not get the same consideration we expect been devised by the Education Department, from this Government. It is due to the and it has made a tremendous difference to generous subsidies paid by this Government country children. In fact, apart from those that we have swimming pools, sewerage in the Far West, virtually all children systems and things of that type. These would today can get to a State school or high not be possible without substantial Govern­ school in country areas and the areas them­ ment help in the form of subsidy. se! ves are reaping the benefit. Recently I was surprised by the unceremonious dis­ Mr. Houston: The subsidy rate under missal of a driver of a school bus. He the Labour Government was higher than brought the matter to me. it is under this Government. Mr. R. Jones: That did not do him much Mr. TOMKINS: I think that is true, but good. if you stop to think about subsidy-- Mr. TOMKINS: On the contrary; it did Mr. Houston: Everything has gone up him a lot of good, because he is still except the subsidy. employed. Address in Reply [9 SEPTEMBER] Address in Reply 431

I went into the conditions of employment of some that are larger than the Gregory of a school-bus operator, and I was staggered electorate. The inspectors are expected to by the wording of one of the conditions of travel by public transport to visit schools. In service. most cases they travel by train; however, if a Paragraph 5 states- particular school is situated a long distance from the railway line, the Education Depart­ "A local Conveyance Committee elected from parents or guardians of eligible school ment does not quarrel with the inspector if he children (Primary and Secondary) should engages a taxi to visit the school. Of course, enter into a contract or agreement with an the taxi-driver has to be paid waiting time owner I driver of a bus or other vehicle for until the school inspector returns to the the conveyance of the school children. The railway station, and the taxi fares are as much parties to any such contract or agreement as 40c a mile in western Quensland and 30c should understand that it can be terminated a mile in areas closer to the city. This by giving one month's notice." arrangement seems to be a fairly loose one. No person can do his job effectively when he I wish to deal with the aspect of giving one is expected to catch a train at 10 to 4 in the month's notice. Under the system that oper­ morning, travel 50 miles, arrive at a town at ates, a conveyance committee calls tenders, half past 6, and then have to wait until the and if a person applies to operate a school school opens at 9 o'clock. I should like the bus he is required to purchase a bus. In the Minister to investigate this matter because I instance that I am referring to, the bus cost believe it would be more economic to provide $8,000. This driver found that he was school inspectors with motor transport. In dismissed. the long term it will be cheaper for the Mr. P. Wood: The driver or the contractor? department, because inspectors now have to be paid expensive taxi fares and they waste Mr. TOMKINS: The driver of the bus. time waiting for trains. The Minister will agree that the present situation leaves much to Mr. P. Wood: Was he the contractor or be desired. I hope that he will investigate this just the driver? matter, because I do not see how senior Mr. TOMKINS: He was virtually a officers in any department can work properly contract driver. He works for the conveyance in such circumstances. committee. Mr. R. Jones: Does this apply also to Mr. P. Wood: But it is his bus? apprenticeship advisory officers? What about a rented car? Mr. TOMKINS: Yes. I went into this matter with the Regional Mr. TOMKINS: Normally I do not favour Director of Education, who told me that the idea of renting motor-cars. under that clause the conveyance committee When a Government department buys a was acting within its rights and that it could motor-car it pays no sales tax. As a rule dismiss the driver. He said that he did not the vehicle is kept for a considerable period, feel obliged to interfere, so I took the matter up with the conveyance committee and I was and when it is traded in, in theory it is told that the driver concerned could not sold with sales tax added. Our local ~hire control the children very well. I made certain council usually buys Holden motor vehicles, remarks to the committee, which induced it keeps them until they have covered 25,000 to hold another meeting. The result is that miles and, at the end of 12 months, they this driver is able to continue in his employ­ can be traded and it does not cost the ment until the end of the year. council more than $200 to buy a new vehicle. The Government would be well I should like the Minister for Education to look at the wording of that clause. I have advised to consider adopting the same no quarrel with conveyance committees, but practice. if people are on committees without any Mr. R. Jones interjected. financial responsibility and are able to do this sort of thing lawfully then I think that Mr. TOMKINS: I do not know about the "lawful" part of it needs to be looked at. that, but as long as my ideas are followed I f.ound myself in sympathy with the driver, I will be quite happy. and I am not quite sure that he is out of the woods yet. It is not hard for parents to gang I wish to refer now to the drought and up on a driver and get rid of him. I think its effect on the economy of the State, and that the situation is a dangerous one, and also to suggest some remedies that I believe that the wording of the clause should be the Government could put into effect. At looked at. present two-thirds of the State is drought­ stricken. Not only are the great wool-growing I turn to another matter on education, and areas affected; so also is the country in the I hope that the hon. member for Toowoomba central and far western areas. The drought East will agree with me here, too. I have position in this State has never been worse. learned that school inspectors are required to Queensland has not picked up since 1957. cover vast areas in performing their duties. A number of the areas are as great as those Mr. Sherrington: That is just when this covered by the regional directors. I can think mob came into power. 432 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

Mr. TOMKINS: I knew that someone doubt that the Government would like to would say that. It is unfortunate that these do more, but education and health service two happenings coincided, but I do not think expenditure is increasing. In fact, all costs that even the Opposition can blame the are increasing. The Department of Lands Government for that. assists in a small way by not imposing I am concerned about the plight of wool­ penalties for the late payment of rentals. It growers because this industry has been the normally charges 10 per cent. backbone of Australia. Over the years it There is no doubt, as the hon. member has been, and it still is, Australia's greatest for Barcoo said, that the Commonwealth export-earner. However, it is a fact of Government is the only avenue for finance life that the price of wool has slowly of any consequence which would help in a decreased and the wool-grower is now caught situation such as this. There is no doubt in the cost squeeze. His position is becoming also that it is best to have a plan prepared untenable, and the drought is making con­ which can be put into operation when the ditions much worse. drought breaks. It is not much use injecting To give hon. members an idea of condi­ millions of dollars into the economy now for tions in my electorate, I point out that in restocking purposes. It would be better the shire of Taroom and the area north to hang on until the drought breaks. of Roma and around Injune, conditions could Mr. Carey: The Commonwealth Govern­ not be worse. This year, many of the ment draws a tremendous amount of money farming areas around Mt. Abundance, Miles, from Queensland, according to "The Courier­ Chinchilla and even around Dalby face their Mail" this morning. It reports that an worst wheat crops, in addition to the already enormous sum goes to the Commonwealth clouded price prospects for wheat. All these Government from Mt. Isa alone. people on the land face huge problems, which we must help them to cope with. As the Mr. TOMKINS: That is so. In my book, hon. member for Warrego said, in the past Queensland is a very good investment for 12 years Queensland has suffered severe the Commonwealth. droughts. However, I certainly do not agree The wool industry is caught up in a with his statement that the Country-Liberal rising cost spiral and a slowly falling wool Government gives little to the people of the market. Were it not for the work and West, and cares less for them. That is not effort of the International Wool Secretariat true. Any Government caught in a similar and the Australian Wool Board, the price of situation could not have been more sym­ wool today would be much lower. For quite pathetic to their needs or have done more some time the price of wool was tied and for them. closely allied to the cost of synthetics. That Mr. O'Donnell: Do you think the Federal price relationship has been broken. I believe Government will give the $100,000,000 to that the Wool Mark symbol and the effort rehabilitate them? behind its introduction did a good deal towards breaking that price relationship. That does Mr. TOMKINS: I shall come to that in not alter the fact that wool is still selling a minute, because that is one of the main at too low a price. It is sold to practically points in my speech. all countries in the world. It has a ready To discover what the Government has been market, but not necessarily a profitable mar­ doing, it is only necessary to look at the ket based on the Australian cost structure. drought-aid scheme that was put into effect This is rather sad because it is our main in March this year. Under that scheme export. the Government allows rail-freight rebates Some of the bigger wool-growers have of 30 per cent. on stock going from drought the ability to survive, whereas some of the areas for sale for slaughter, 50 per cent. smaller ones strike trouble because of their on stock in any condition being sent on more limited scope, carrying capacity, and so agistment, 50 per cent. on the return trip on. In any case a plan must be evolved or on reconsignment to another agistment to assist the industry now. The Longreach area, and 75 per cent. on fodder consigned meeting of wool-growers which was con­ to stock-owners in drought-declared areas. vened by the United Graziers' Association The Department of Transport allows free­ for 17 September should be able to produce road-transport permits for all stock move­ the nucleus of a rehabilitation plan which ment in drought-declared areas, and for will do something for this industry. the road transport of fodder. In addition, I suggest that the Government once again there is a subsidy of Se a ton-mile on fodder bring to the notice of the Federal Govern­ transported by licensed carriers from the ment the plight of wool-growers in Queens­ nearest railhead to property in a drought­ land. I refer also to other people on the declared area. land who are in similar straits as a result That is the type of concession being offered. of the drought, but I refer particularly to I do not think the Government can be any­ the wool-grower because he has suffered not thing but proud of this scheme which has cost only from the drought but also from the low millions of dollars. It has been well received price of wool. in the industry which is sensible enough to In an endeavour to assist the wool-grower, know that there is a limit to what a Gov­ I suggest that he be offered a 50 per cent. ernment can do in this field. There is no reduction in Crown rental charged over Address in Reply [9 SEPTEMBER] Address in Reply 433 the next five years-this was offered two to be in excess of a living area discontinued. years ago but is not being offered now-and I do not believe that the special-lease system, I also suggest that shire council rates be as being used at present, is conducive to good subsidised to an extent which would allow land settlement, and I should like to see the a reduction of 50 per cent. over a five-year system discontinued altogether. period. It is quite impossible for shire I should like to see the freehold system councils to give such a concession, and the extended far more quickly than has been the only way in which they could carry on under case to date. I believe that once the freehold those conditions would be by a system of system is adopted instead of the grazing­ subsidising rates from somewhere. I believe selection system it will be a good thing for that history shows that the State Government the industry. In many cases producers get cannot afford this type of assistance, and Federal help would be needed. These are into such a position that they must get out, things that I believe the Government should and if, in getting out, they are able to sell put to the Federal authorities. to their neighbours, they would be helping them, too. I think that would be a good I now come to the very costly matter of thing. There must be a flexible land policy. restocking. I believe that restocking loans should be made available on a long-term I make a further plea to the Federal basis at nominal interest rates, certainly no Government to have another look at the higher than 3 per cent. I also believe that position in Queensland as a result of the the Government should give consideration to drought, particularly as it affects wool­ setting up a competent and experienced growers. My mind goes back to the wool­ committee consisting of a State Cabinet boom years in the early fifties, when wool Minister, a senior representative of the reached a price of £1 a pound. Treasury, a senior representative of the Mr. Bennett: There was a Labour Govern­ Departmen_t of Primary Industries, a senior ment in those days. representative of the Department of Lands, and also three industry representatives, one Mr. TOMKINS: In those days the price each from North Queensland, Central of wool rose because of the Korean war­ Queensland and South Queensland. This I do not think that the Labour Government committee should have wide powers to had much to do with it-and wool­ investigate the cases of people who growers were caught in a situation exactly qualify for the type of assistance that opposite to the present situation. They I have recommended. It is quite obvious that were receiving high incomes, but they there would be some people who need, and were not able to develop their properties qualify for, assistance, and there would be fully because of the shortage of fencing and others who are able to finance their own building materials, and so on. It was very way out of trouble and do not need help. difficult to get timber to build a house, and I believe that this should be a top-level engines, windmills and other equipment were committee, and for that reason I suggest in short supply. that one of its members should be a Cabinet The wool-growers received the money in Minister in order to give it the status it one hand and lost it with the other. Who needs. received it? The Federal Government. I It would also be necessary for the committee believe, therefore, that that is a factor which to consider applications from cattle producers, the Federal Government should consider many of whom have been hard hit by when it looks at Queensland today and sees drought, and from those farmers who are also how this State is suffering. Western Aus­ facing an unpredictable future as a result tralia is suffering, also, but I believe that not only of drought but of the uncertain Queensland is a very good investment for future of the wheat industry as well. I the Federal Government. It almost owes it believe that action must be taken now so to this State to come to the aid of wool­ that plans will be in operation when the growers because of the considerable amount drought ends. of revenue it collected from them in taxation The State Government must also have in the wool boom between about 1950 and a further look at the matter of living areas. 1956. I again appeal to the Federal Govern­ I believe it is axiomatic that, as wool prices ment to look at the situation in thSJt light. recede, living areas, particularly in the drier Mr. Bennett: What do you say about regions, must be allowed to become larger. over-stocking? It should be made easier for a grazier to sell his property to his neighbour in certain Mr. TOMKINS: Over-stocking is what circumstances, and in many cases assistance wrecks properties in most instances. Usually could be given to allow this to happen. it occurs because people have areas that are Under freeholding tenure, it is now possible too small, and most of them were created to subdivide a property and sell portion of by Labour Governments. After the first it, and this also can be of great assistance World War, an A.L.P. Government set up in certain cases. I think that is good. perpetual leases in my electorate as dairy I should also like to see the automatic farms and some of them were as small as granting of a freeholding offer to all lessees 330 acres. Soldiers returning from the first of grazing selections who apply for con­ World War went onto those blocks and went version, and the departmental practice of stone motherless broke, and it has been granting special leases over those areas said difficult to correct the anomalies created by 434 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

bad land administration in those days. Over­ Mr. TOMKINS: The hon. member will be stocking occurs because people on small pleased to know that that is a perfect road and properties must over-stock to live. I should a tribute to the engineers who built it and like to see an extension of freeholding, which our council which did the work. The would have a tendency to correct this situa­ Charleville-Cunnamulla road in the electorate tion. of Warrego is another very important north­ south road. I should like to see more money The cattle industry is in a different cate­ spent on these north-south roads because I gory because its price structure is the direct believe the time is fast coming when they will opposite of the price structure in the wool be used other than for sending stock from industry. I was interested to read in the Queensland to New South Wales. With good Queensland Pocket Year Book that, once roads, producers in Queensland could well again, the beef and veal industry had been go to places such as Dubbo and Gunnedah, the greatest export income earner in 1967-68. buy stock there and bring them back for It earned $105,837,000 for the State, which re-stocking purposes. I believe this is very was more than the $98,873,000 earned by important. The hon. member for Barcoo wool and the $95,616,000 earned by sugar. would appreciate that, once we get these The cattle industry is set to expand rapidly good roads built to a higher standard, we will once normal conditions return, and I have bring stability to the market. no doubt that it will do so. Mr. McKechnie: It allows for a flow either I wish to deal now with roads. It has way. been possible this year for surplus stock to be sold at fair market prices to New South Mr. TOMKINS: That is so and I believe Wales and Victoria because there has never this is what we should aim for. been a better season in the South. Here I must pay tribute to the road transport Another matter which I have only a operators, who have made this trade possible. moment to touch on is a realistic drought­ They have done a magnificent job trans­ bond scheme to be introduced by the Federal porting cattle and sheep vast distances into Government. I believe that this together with New South Wales and Victoria, and in some good north-south roads are two factors that cases right through to South Australia. They will do no end of good for primary pro­ have worked long hours and have been ducers in Queensland. The drought-bond responsible for saving many drought-stricken scheme that has been put up by the Federal stock from certain death. Generally speaking, Government does not go far enough in that cattlemen in Queensland have been able to it is limted to persons who get 90 per cent. get a fair market price for their stock. of their income from the sale of stock, cattle or sheep, and this would penalise any person It has been possible for the road trans­ growing crops. I do not think it should port operators to do this because the main do that. I believe that a properly adminis­ north-south roads are slowly being improved. tered drought-bond scheme, together with Again I urge the Government to give con­ better roads, would make no end of difference. sideration to increasing the priority on the I agree with the hon. member for Yeronga north-south roads. It is a fact-I speak that beef roads in Queensland have brought purely of the western line areas-that most tremendous benefits. I think that, with an roads head towards Brisbane and that less extension of the road system and a bit of accent has been placed on north-south roads. realism in the taxation set-up, much could By extending itself, the Government has be done to save the livestock of Queensland. provided fairly good east-west roads, and I believe that the north-south roads must now Mr. DAVIS (Brisbane) (4.18 p.m.): It be given higher priority. gives me pleasure to stand in this august Assembly and speak as the representative of Mr. O'Donnell: The east-west roads in the electorate with the name of the capital central and northern Queensland have not city of our State. I welcome the opportunity been finished. How can yO'U suggest that to express on behalf of the electors of north-south roads leading to New South Brisbane their loyalty to our Sovereign, Wales should be built? Queen Elizabeth II, and to thank my A.L.P. Mr. TOMKINS: That may be so but, if supporters and my assistant campaign we are going to save vast numbers of stock director, Mr. Bluey Cannon, for their tre­ it is up to people to put up arguments a~ mendous support during the campaign. I they see them and this is the way I see them. must also thank the electors of Brisbane for allowing me to come here. There are three main north-south roads. The Leichhardt Highway from Theodore The Brisbane electorate is a very historic to Taroom, Wandoan, Miles, Condamine and one. I am only its fourth representative Goondiwindi is a very important one as since 1912, a span of 57 years. In 1912 also is the road linking Rolleston, Injune, the electors of Brisbane were sensible enough Roma, Surat, St. George and Mungindi. to elect the first Labour representative, The last important north-south road-- Michael Joseph Kirwan, who was com­ monly known in the Chamber as Mick Mr. Bennett: What about the Roma­ Kirwan. He is still well known in the Injune road? electorate even today. He was in Parliament Address in Reply [9 SEPTEMBER] Address in Reply 435 from 1912 to 1932 and served as Chairman The scenery that meets his eye consists of of Committees, Minister without portfolio and wonderful potted palms and hanging baskets also Minister for Public Works. and plenty of colourful paint. Thank good­ ness it is the terminus and the tourist cannot He was followed by Robert Funnell who go any further. If he could I am sure that served from 1932 to 1936 and who died with that sort of reception he would turn back tragically after only four short years in and would not cross the Victoria Bridge into office. Robert Funnell is still remembered the centre of the city. in the electorate, and each year the Robert Funnell memorial medal is presented to the The greatest reception that any tourist can pupil who obtains the highest pass in Junior receive is given if he arrives by ship. We at a school within the electorate. expect to attract the wealthy overseas tourists, but can hon. members imagine the situation After Bob Funnel came perhaps the most when the liner comes up the river and berths illustrious of all representatives of the at Hamilton Wharf, Bretts Wharf or another Brisbane electorate. I refer to my friend and of Brisbane's working wharves? They must tutor, John Henry Mann, who is known to feel disgusted as the liner pulls into the one and all as the famous "Johnno". He wharf and the gangway is lowered for them entered Parliament in April 1936, so he served to disembark. It must be shocking for them to for 33 years, which is approximately my walk on to the wharf and weave their way age. As everybody knows, from 1950 till through bales of wool, cranes, fork-lifts and 1957, he occupied the very high office of ropes. Of course, on the scheduled arrival of Speaker and carried out his duties with great a ship, at Hamilton, someone from the dignity and pride. I thank him for the assist­ Tourist Bureau generally places artificial ance that he rendered to me during the indoor plants on the wharf to make it look election campaign as my campaign director. more attractive. Not too many people know more about campaigning than "Johnno" Mann. A great I have also noticed that female toilet number of stories have been circulated about facilities are not provided for mothers with him, and I believe some to be false. To try children who are waiting for a ship to to emulate Johnno would be impossible, but I arrive. If we expect Brisbane to be the have the wish to possess one of his very fine tourist capital of the State we must do qualities. I wish for his sincerity to his much better than we are. electors. I know that they received that Brisbane has many fine buildings and insti­ sincerity from him and that they expect the tutions, and it will not be long before we same from me. are admiring the wonderful city square. The electorate of Brisbane has in it many The city has progressed under the Jones fine buildings and institutions. It contains the Labour administration in spite of the many largest hospital, over 50 hotels, the largest obstacles placed in its way by the Country­ department stores, the largest motels and the Liberal Government, but the city dwellers largest theatre. It might be said that it is the are disadvantaged. For example, during hub of the business and theatrical world of the recent election campaign the Treasurer this State. Although the City of Brisbane is published a pamphlet displaying a very the gateway to our tourist State, tourists are attractive, modern railway station in his given a very poor reception. If he arrives by electorate. Have hon. members seen some air the first thing he sights is a shocking of the railway stations in the heart of the igloo that has been left over from the 1939-45 city-the very hub of the State? The Treas­ conflict. I know the old argument will be put urer's pamphlet displayed the Helidon and forward that that is the responsibility not of Laidley stations. I agree that they are fine the State but of the Commonwealth. I point stations, but have hon. members seen the out, however, that at the moment the Premiers Bowen Hills railway station? It is worth of Victoria and New South Wales, Mr. Askin the trip just for the laugh. and Sir Henry Bolte, are fighting tooth and I should now like to present my views nail with the Commonwealth about which one on one of the sports that I follow, namely, of their airports, Mascot in New South Wales mid-week racing. Mid-week racing in the or Tullamarine in Victoria, will be the first to metropolitan area should be reviewed. The be completed as an international airport. Those New South Wales system for metropolitan Premiers are speaking in terms of millions of and provincial racing is the ideal one in dollars for their respective States This year that the racegoer has an alternative. Racing the Commonwealth will spend $20,000,000 on takes place at Canterbury mainly on Wednes­ the Mascot airport and $19,000,000 on days, and on Tuesdays and Thursdays race Tullamarine airport, whereas it will spend meetings are held at Kembla Grange, Wyong, only $24,666 on Eagle Farm airport. These Hawkesbury, or one of the other tracks. are the results of the strong representations Brisbane racegoers who wish to attend a by the leaders of those States and the wishful mid-week meeting are forced to go to one dreaming of the Rip Van Winkles of our of the country courses, at some of which State. the amenities are very poor. There is a place Let us take the case of a tourist who for country racing but I firmly believe that arrive at the interstate railway station. He the racing fraternity, and the public generally, does not disembark from his train in the favour the allocation of extra days to metro­ centre of the city but over at South Brisbane. politan mid-week racing. 436 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

Breakfast Creek provides another example to create an authority incorporating train, of the need for beautification in our city. bus, taxi and all other forms of public trans­ From inquiries directed to residents of long port. It must be pointed out that at this standing in that area I am led to believe point of time we have sufficient information that many years ago the creek was a haven from overseas to go along with this. Even for fishing, exploring and swimming. Today, in America, the great citadel of private it is polluted and is an eyesore with a very enterprise, all bus and other public transport serious flooding problem. In June, 1967, pro­ services, which are run privately, are not perties adjoining the creek were seriously paying. I think that the No. 1 reason public damaged. Hon. members will recall the transport services do not pay is that the terrible disaster of the Queen's Birthday motor-car is so popular. People who own week-end. Although lives were endangered, motor-cars do not leave them under houses; thank heavens none were lost. However, they prefer to drive them to work. What no action has been taken by any encouragement are they given to use public Government department since then to prevent transport? flooding. As it is a tidal creek, the respon­ One transport authority could co-ordinate sibility should be accepted by the Depart­ all forms of public transport so that there ment of Harbours and Marine. It should would be a quick, efficient service with cheap be cleaned, dredged and straightened. Resi­ fares. Undoubtedly a loss would be incurred dents who have inquired have been informed but the public would have a decent transport that one section is the responsibility of the service. Any Government should think along Department of Harbours and Marine and that these lines. Public transport cannot be made another section is the responsibility of the to pay at this point of time. It would be far Water Supply and Irrigation Commission. better to make public transport a taxation An answer that I received in the House concession. It could be financed from the recently puts the responsibility on the Bris­ Commonwealth's petrol tax. The people are bane City Council. entitled to a good public transport service How can any positive action be taken and the only way there can be such a service against all this red tape? It is a depressed is to co-ordinate the different forms of area, and property valuations have been transport. drastically reduced. No positive action has In my opinion, one of the most irrespon­ been taken by this Government for two sible and senseless actions of the Government years. The residents there now live in fear when it took office in 1957 was the cancella­ of continual rain. Action must be taken tion of the scheme for the electrification of immediately to stop illegal dumping and the the suburban railway system. It was pointed silting that follows it, because what was out in this Chamber the other day that the once a free-flowing creek is now, at low tide, population of Brisbane will shortly be a string of muddy water-holes. 1,000,000. Where is the planning for their If we consider the next generation of transportation? It is no good simply saying, residents in this part of our city, it is our "We will get more people. What will we do duty to give Breakfast Creek back to nature about it?" We have to say positively, "This so that it will be like it was years ago. I is what we will do." believe that inner-city living should be taken into account by the Government far more I believe that Brisbane is unique in that it than it is at present. We should look to the has a divided railway system. If a person future. Where is there a plan for reurbani­ living on the north side of the city wishes to sation? People are forced to go to outer visit someone on the south side, he has to suburbia. Would it not be a far better leave the train at either Roma Street or proposal to build blocks of Housing Com­ Central station and catch a bus or walk across mission fiats where all the amenities are Victoria Bridge to make another trip on the now available? south-side system. What a foolish situation I am proud to represent the city dweller. that is, and what a shocking indictment it is I shall push, with all my endeavour, the of the Government! Instead of spending cause of the city dweller who, I feel, has $24,000,000 on the railway connected with been neglected by this Country-Liberal the Goonyella project, let the Government Government. The case of city versus country provide something for the city dweller in should be put into its proper perspective. Brisbane. Inner-city dwellers are first-rate, not second­ Mr. Sherrington: Land was resumed for rate, citizens. They are equal to their country cousins and should be entitled to the that purpose in Labour's time. same privileges, especially in voting. The Mr. DAVIS: The plans and specifications A.L.P. believes in a fair deal for all sections of the community. are prepared. A friend of mine worked on that job. My colleague the hon. member for Sand­ gate, in his speech last week, said that a I now wish to deal with other forms of transportation authority should be set up in transport. When I was connected with the Brisbane to cover all forms of public Transport Workers' Union, I was one of the transport. This was our policy before the officials who endeavoured to have something most recent State election. Everyone will done about the transportation of inflammable no doubt agree that the only way that we products. I asked the Minister for Labour will improve public transport in the city is and Tourism whether the Transport Workers' Address in Reply [9 SEPTEMBER] Address in Reply 437

Union was consulted when the new regula­ When a question was asked by the hon. tions came into effect, and his answer was member for Salisbury relative to the gaoling "No". The Minister consulted officials of of people convicted of overloading offences, the oil industry and master carriers-all bosses I think that the answer was, 'There is no who, in my opinion, from the dealings that record of this." There have been numerous I have had with them, would carry petrol in instances in which people could not afford plastic bags if it was cheap to do it that way to pay fines for overloading offences. A and if they thought they could get away with policeman produces a record of conviction it. The Minister did not consider the people with costs and says, "You owe $100." Where who do the actual transportation of these would many men with families who have very volatile products. been employed as truck-drivers find $100 or . There have been instances of tankers capsiz­ $120, from which the employer has received mg on the approaches to the bridge at the profit? If they have not the money, Breakfast Creek. There are many things that the policeman takes the body. That has could be discussed with representatives of the occurred on numerous occasions, and any­ drivers, and I think that the Minister should one who says that it has not does not know at least have been courteous enough to discuss what he is talking about. the matter with officers of the Transport I turn now to the question of driver onus, Workers' Union, which covers the majority and I was personally involved in one inci­ of drivers who transport inflammable pro­ dent that I think shows the unprofitability ducts. It will be too late if a tanker blows of drivers when their convictions and fines up on, for example, the Story Bridge and for overloading offences begin to mount up. people are burnt in the holocaust that would I was in the office of the personnel officer follow. My information to date is that the for one of the big carrying companies and regulations that have been introduced are I asked him this question: "If I had 10 impo~sible to understand and implement, and convictions for overloading offences and I beheve the Minister would be wise if he my friend who is with me was a 'clean­ conferred with both sides involved in the skin', who would get the job if you knew transportation of these products. that?" He answered quite emphatically, "We would have to employ the 'cleanskin' driver Mr. Sherrington: They don't mind charging because he would be less expensive the first drivers for axle overloading. time he was booked for overloading." So, Mr. DA VIS: The hon. member has just by having many fines for overloading beaten me to the punch, as I was about to offences, a driver can put himself out of a deal with that matter. I believe that the most job; he becomes too expensive for the shocking and unjust law in this State at employer. present is the one that places the responsibility The Minister has been approached by for overloading on the driver. I have had the Transport Workers' Union on this ques­ contact over many years with hundreds of tion, and I should like to see the onus rela­ drivers who have been fined for overloading tive to overloading put on the owner. I breaches. It is all very well for the Minister do not think one would have to worry very to claim that overloading is the responsibility much about policemen if the employer had of the driver. In numerous cases drivers have to pay the fines out of his own pocket. been instructed to overload. What is the He would be the best possible policeman. alternative? If an employer instructs a driver Although I am a strong supporter of road to carry a load and the driver knows that the safety, I believe that the current policy of vehicle is overloaded, the driver, especially in cancellation of drivers' licences under the country areas, either has to get in the vehicle so-called points system is quite unfair and and drive it out through the gate, or get out unjust. permanently. That is his only alternative. This occurs time and time again. Mr. Bromley: Especially if a person drives Under the Act, employers say also, "If for a living. you are booked and fined, we will pay the fine", and on many occasions the employer Mr. DAVIS: Thousands of drivers does pay the fine. However, after a while throughout the State are dependent on their a driver becomes unprofitable because his licence for their livelihood. In this category fines are mounting. I know of one driver are truck-drivers, taxi-drivers, bus-drivers, who had so many convictions that his fines sales representatives and van salesmen, to amounted to over $500. His employer was mention only a few. I have no sympathy approached and he said, "What name are for the irresponsible driver, but I wish to they in?" He was told that they were in quote an extract from the 1963 report on the driver's name and he said, "No. I have policy and procedures for the promotion of paid enough fines for overloading. They driver improvement through licensing and are yours. Look after them." That occurs enforcement. It was prepared by the Com­ time and time again. The big companies will mittee of Driver Improvement and issued by pay the fines while a driver is in their the Department of Shipping and Transport, employment, but once he is dismissed or and, on page 23, item 151 contains the sacked they will say to him, "There it is following:- in the Act. The responsibility is yours." "Drivers residing ,in the Brisbane metro­ I say to hon. members opposite, "Don't let politan area whose points total reach the anyone tell you that that does not occur." 'show cause' level are called upon by the 438 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

District Superintendent of Traffic to 'show Inspector Crank, Superintendent of Traffic, cause' and these drivers have to appear at has not been rescinded. What we tell people the Brisbane Traffic Office before a Super­ ·in the South as to the procedure here is, intendent of Traffic. in fact, wrong and a lie. "This interview usually results in a I should like now to touch on the subject final warning being issued. of the S G I 0 Theatre. When I first came into this House I asked the Treasurer if he "If such driver comes under notice again would consider changing the name of this within a short time a further 'show cause' theatre and the flippant reply I got was notice is served on him. At this inter­ that the theatre is owned entirely by S G I 0 view some action is usually taken against policy-holders. I have always been led to the driver to suspend his licence. believe that the S G I 0 is the State Govern­ "This suspension may be for a period ment Insurance Office and is responsible to the State Government. I have house of from one to six months, however, in insurance and a life assurance policy with the case of a driver whose livelihood the S G I 0 and I was not consulted on the depends on his holding a licence the sus­ name of the theatre. I do not appreciate pension may take the form of a restriction foolish answers such as that. The question being placed on his driving other than was asked in good faith. The theatre is in during working hours-especially if his my electorate and it is, indeed, a wonderful offences have been committed outside work­ theatre. I have been approached by people ing hours." in the art world. The newspapers have been inundated with letters to the editor, and That report was made in 1963 and I very prominent theatrical personalities have made much doubt whether it has been changed their views well and truly known. Rumour by the Commonwealth Department of Ship­ has it that the adminstration of the S G I 0 ping and Transport. But this is not the Theatre would prefer to have it named the present procedure. When a driver reaches State Theatre, but this hypocritical Govern­ nine points, he is asked to show cause and ment considered that that name was too is given an opportunity to explain the reasons socialised and would remind the people that and he then loses his licence. This pro~ the State Government Insurance Office was cedurt? and what is printed in the report I set up by a Labour administration. I feel have JUSt read are contradictary. that the name of the theatre is a very stupid My argument is that, if a driver is a one. Recently a person from Melbourne person who could be classified as a pro­ visited my home and told me that he was fessional dDiver and these offences occur out­ going up to see the Old Tote Com­ side his normal working hours, he should pany performing at the theatre. (By the way, be treated separately from the person who I think also that a representative of the drives purely for pleasure. The driver who Old Tote Company said that the name of earns his living with his licence incurs a the theatre was a stupid one.) This interstate dual penalty. visitor told me that he was going to visit the "Seegeo" theatre. That was his pro­ The police argument is that the driver who nunciation, and he was not being facetious. requires a licence for a living should be a I do not care if the theatre is named after more experienced and competent driver and royalty-it can be called the Prince of Wales should realise the risks he takes. As a union Theatre, perhaps, after Prince Charlcs-or official, I have represented people on 'show in honour of a famous Australian. As far cause', particularly during the period last as I am concerned, it could even be called year when the radar traps were stationed "Old Joe's" Theatre. It can be named at the bottom of hills, but this was not taken anything, so long as the Government gets into consideration. The position is the same rid of, as it is said in current theatrical as I instanced before with overloading. If terms, this unpronounceable four-letter a person has nine points, an employer will word. not hire him. As he is unprofitable, he As I am a new member I think it is only is "turfed" out, and this constitutes a dual fair that I should not try to rubbish the penalty in that he pays the fines for his con­ Government all the time but that I should victions and then loses his job. He may have congratulate it. I do so on its finally to take a labouring job or something less calling Parliament together after an eight­ remunerative than his wage as a professional month recess. In Tasmania, which has a dr.iver. In other words, he could lose up budget that is approximately the same as to $300 by the cancellation of his licence that of the Brisbane City Council, an election plus the amount he has paid in fines. was held at about the same time as ours. The Tasmanian Parliament sat until three We were discussing contractors earlier. I weeks before the election. Prior to the mention the case of one person who had election a Labour Government was in power, a contract for the cartage of oil in the Mackay but it did not back down; it sat right up district. A driver employed by him was until the end. Unfortunately, owing to the charged and lost his licence. The employer shocking method of voting in Tasmania. a was able to employ somebody else and this Labour Government does not govern that man had to look around for a labouring State at the moment. Our Parliament rose job. I believe his treatment was quite unfair early in December so that the Government and unjust. And the report put in by could contest an election held in May. After Address in Reply [9 SEPTEMBER] Address in Reply 439 the election the Government decided that Mr. CORY (Warwick) (4.58 p.m.): I take it was necessary to keep Parliament in recess this opportunity to congratulate the Admini­ for a further three months so that it could strator, Mr. Justice Sheehy, on his opening of recover from the reaction of the electors. this session of Parliament. I regret the events I deal now with the workers of Queens­ that made it necessary for him to do so on this land. As a former union official I am con­ occasion, and wish Sir William Mack a speedy cerned about penal provisions. Time and time and permanent return to health. again employers endeavour to invoke penal I thank the electors of Warwick for again provisions against unions. If any industrial giving me the privilege of representing them trouble arises the employer straightaway in this Parliament, and I re-affirm their races to the Industrial Commission loyalty to Her Majesty the Queen. and tries to get orders made against the unions so that the employer can bash I congratulate the Premier and thank him the unions into submission. I hope that for his leadership in the 12 months since he the Government will review penal clauses became Premier of the State. I congratulate against employers because of the unsatis­ the two new Ministers, namely, the Minister factory provisions contained in the Industrial for Conservation, Marine and Aboriginal Conciliation and Arbitration Act. At a later Affairs, and the Minister for Local Govern­ date I shall ask a question about the number ment and Electricity on their elevation to of employers who have been fined over the their high offices. We realise that the Premier last 12 months for not carrying out award believes in making use of the ability of conditions. Government members, and he has certainly I shall give an example of an award pro­ seen ability in the two new Ministers. I vision and the way in which the Act is framed know that he will make full use of their against the workers. When I wanted to see abilities and that the Government will be the one firm's time-book, I was told it was in better for it. Sydney. To use a slang expression, I knew that On behalf of the people of Killarney, I this firm was "touching" its workers. Never­ thank the Premier and the Minister for theless, I returned repeatedly, and being a very Works for what has been done since the fair-minded union official, I gave the employer storm last November. From the moment the the benefit of the doubt. I said, "Fair Premier returned to his office after the illness enough, but why is it in Sydney?" In the from which he was suffering at the time of fortnight after I first visited this firm the men the storm, he put an enormous amount of suddenly received a $10 increase. I could not effort and drive into getting things moving get any idea of when the book would be and alleviating the problems in that area. back, and as the negotiations took four to five months to carry out, eventually the firm Mr. P. Wood: Wasn't anything done before had to be prosecuted and brought to court then? to produce the time-book. For not producing Mr. CORY: A good deal was done before the time-book the firm was fined $10, but the then, but I am thanking the Premier for legal costs of the union exceeded $80. what was done by him. He moved quickly By the time the book was produced six months to provide personal relief of over $30,000. had elapsed, which meant that we were out The Glengallan Shire Council sought of time. As the Act now stands, the book $7,784.49 in relief, and that amount was must be produced within six months. When paid in full. There was also a $12,500 grant we worked out how much was owing we for the hospital. found that, for a six-month period, for only 12 employees, over $10,700 was owing. It I thank the Minister for Works for taking was all down the drain because of the way quick action to have the department do a in which the Act is framed and the weak mighty job in the two days following the penalties provided by it. I go as far as to storm, which occurred on a Friday night. say that, throughout Queensland, thousands of An amount of $18,500 was expended so workers under different awards are being that 90 per cent. of the classrooms in the "touched'' by employers through their non­ school could be used on the following compliance with award conditions. The Gold Monday. In addition, $12,500 was spent on Coast is renowned for it, and in country areas a new teacher's residence. Two more truck drivers are working 15 or 16 hours a teachers' residences are in the course of week overtime for trip money of 4 to 5 cents construction. A total of $30,000 is being a mile, or whatever the boss wants to pay spent on school residences. A new building them. housing the police station and the court­ house, to cost $38,000, is under construction. Mr. Newton interjected. A residence to go with it will be built in the near future and a second residence is planned. Mr. DAVIS: I will not go so far as to say Tenders have been called for new school that, because that is another question, but buildings estimated to cost $69,000. this is starting to "phase in" on the drug problem. There is definitely an agreement All in all, this adds up to a solid effort between the employers: if they can avoid by the Premier's Department and the Depart­ paying tea money, and avoid complying with ment of Works for the people in that area, an award, they believe they have achieved and I take this opportunity to express their something and have had a good week. thanks. 440 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

I welcome all new members of Parliament conservation projects are based on a pro­ for many reasons, but particularly because gramme of security first and expansiOn they had something to offer the electors. second, the State will not come to any harm. Regardless of the side of the Chamber they Although many areas are not suitable for sit on they must have something, and cer­ irrigation, let us first secure, as best we can, tainly they have the confidence of the the livestock industry that we already have. majority of the people whom they represent. I again advocate further conservation from I congratulate the mover and seconder of the streams in the Upper Condamine basin this motion on their two impressive speeches. above the point where water from the Leslie They both stuck to the subjects they know Dam takes over. This is an area in which best and to which they have devoted their there is no control of the stream flow. lives. The mover of the motion comes from Although there is both surface and under­ the West and the seconder of the motion comes from Brisbane, so that their experiences ground water, there is not enough water to are vastly different. A good deal has been go round, and I believe that there should said about the contribution of the hon. be a policy of sharing the water that is member for Wavell, and whether he should available among all those who wish to use it. or should not have made it. I cannot say I do not agree with the present policy of whether he is right or wrong because only the Irrigation and Water Supply Commission a technical man, steeped in the workings of prohibiting the issue of licences on uncon­ of the Department of Health, could arbitrate trolled streams. That policy has been followed on many of the matters he raised. It was for the last two or three years, and I believe refreshing, however, to hear a man espouse that it is a sectional policy which tends to his thoughts. He did this. I do not know create two classes of farmers-first-class whether there is need for change, but what farmers, and second-class farmers. In my the hon. member said will allow a fresh look opinion, that is not good enough. In short, to be taken at the workings of the Depart­ it means that a person who had consolidated ment of Health. sufficiently or whose bank balance was big I am reminded that my thoughts were enough two or three years ago to expand similar when the Premier took office about 12 further could get a licence to irrigate, but a months ago. Here was a new Premier, and younger man who had not consolidated his I thought that he would probably have a affairs sufficiently to expand then has brand-new outlook on many matters. That been prohibited from getting a licence. The has been proved in the last 12 months by younger man now finds that he cannot even his approach to transport problems, valua­ get off the ground with his application for a tion problems, and health matters in Queens­ licence. In effect, only the man with sufficient land. I think we all welcome these fresh money to buy a piece of land that already thoughts. Regardless of how well a thing has a licence attaching to it can get a licence, seems to have been done in the past, let and in many instances this is the man who has us never be afraid to have another look at one already next door. In this field, as in it from time to time. There may or may many others, it is very easy for the big to get not be some need for change. bigger and very difficult for the little fellow to get off the ground. In all sincerity, I believe During this debate there have been a that all riparian landholders should have an number of speeches from both sides of the equal right to share the waters that are House dealing with water conservation. available. A policy that allows landholders to Nothing new has been said in any of them, share the underground water but saves the and I think it all boils down to the fact that surface water for a chosen few is not good there is not enough water in Queenslaand enough, and I find it impossible to justify it. for the needs of the State. Conservation is not cheap; it never has been. Although it The position is entirely different where is not the complete answer to our problems conservation schemes and storages from which it is a large part of the answer to many water is sold have been provided. If water is of them. Once conservation has taken place, to be sold, the Commission has a responsi­ the water has to be paid for, which means bility to guarantee the supply and, therefore, that the economics of the industry whose must limit the number of licences available. production will be boosted by the availability However, where there is no conservation of water must be studied carefully and must scheme and no payment for water, I think that be shown to be sound. Production must riparian landholders should have a right to increase no faster than the rate at which share the water. markets can absorb it. Whether the markets be at home or abroad, they must be able Because there is not enough water, let us to accommodate the increased production or consider all the sources of water that may be there will be gluts and price falls. available in this area. Of course, surface waters are available, and I think that there is Let us therefore consider the conservation a greater and greater need for the building of of water in terms of security for the nation, weirs on many of the smaller streams. I and security for the individual. If that is know that, by and large, the Irrigation and done, expansion will take place automatically. Water Supply Commisison has not had a very The present drought spells out the need happy experience in the building of weirs in for security first, and I think that if water Queensland, but I think that it will have to Address in Reply [9 SEPTEMBER] Address in Reply 441 reconsider the situation. I am firmly con­ the committee is Mr. N. P. Rees, of the vinced that in some instances small weirs will New South Wales Water Conservation and do the job when a major storage is likely to Irrigation Commission, Sydney. The com­ prove completely inadequate and too costly. mittee is responsible to the Minister for I am very pleased that the Irrigation and Conservation, Mr. Beal, who will report to Water Supply Commission is investigating the Minister for Works. underground water resources. In the near I ask the Government to support this com­ future it will be calling tenders for a series mittee and stress the importance of this of test drillings in the Freestone Creek, Swan section of its investigations. By doing so, it Creek, Farm Creek and Condamine River will also be helping the contiguous local basin. Many farmers, of course, have pri­ authorities and the Flood Mitigation Board of vately owned bores. However, I believe that the Grafton area. the more assistance that can be given to further We must not be too proud to look at all investigate and develop the area, the better. sources of water, whether they are over the Taking advantage of all these sources still border or not. It is not a matter of taking leaves a deficiency, and I ask the Government a large amount of water from New South to examine very closely a scheme now under Wales. The catchment area of the Clarence way in New South Wales to investigate the River is about 8,500 square miles. The whole Clarence River catchment and problems maximum area possible for a scheme of arising from flooding in the Clarence River. diversion into the Condamine River would A special committee has been set up by the be 425 square miles, which is a very small New South Wales Premier, Mr. Askin, to percentage of the over-all area. The annual inquire into matters concerning the future run-off at the 2,000-ft. contour, which would development and utilisation of the total water be about the level at which such diversion resources of the Clarence River, and I ask scheme appears feasible, could be expected to the Government to support this committee in be about 200,000 acre-feet a year. We may its investigations with the idea of having it find that only a small percentage of that fully investigate the feasibility and cost of is necessary or sensible for our needs. diverting a small portion of the water into Let us examine the problems, the feasibility the headwaters of the Condamine River. The and cost of such a scheme. We might find terms of reference that have been placed that this could perhaps be an ideal solution be_fore this committee say, amongst other with the possibility of a major storage at thmgs- about this level which would feed both " . . . the practicability and desirability river systems. I wholeheartedly urge the a_nd economics of inland diversion of por­ Government to support this survey, with tion of the waters of the Clarence River by particular reference to the area of catch­ gravitation or pumping." ment which, it is believed could be used (\s well as that sort of investigation, which economically by the Condamine Basin. mcludes the possibility of diverting water into When we obtain all the facts and costs western New South Wales rivers and pos­ we can then decide whether such a scheme sibly the Condamine River over the Queens­ is a sensible one. But I do suggest that the land border the aim is also to assist in the Government should participate in this investi­ rectification of the flooding problems around gation because if such a scheme where pos­ the city of Grafton itself. But the matter that sible it would call for co-operation between concerns us is the possibility of diverting a the Queensland Government, the New South portion of this water. Wales Government, and the Commonwealth This is something that would be well worth Government. The sooner the Queensland investigating because the Clarence River Government associated itself with it, the carries much more water than can ever better. be adequately used. The area suffers greatly I want to deal now with the sale of petrol from flood damage and there can be no pos­ in Queensland on Anzac Day. I hope that sible risk of lack of permanent water to the the Minister for Labour and Tourism will look irrigators along the Clarence River. At the into this matter. Many motorists drive long same time, the Condamine River has not distances on Anzac Day, when sports meetings nearly enough water and it is certainly not and race meetings are held and hotels are permanent. allowed to open after 1 p.m. But service If engineers can come up with a reasonable stations are not permitted to sell petrol. scheme whereby we can obtain water from They can sell petrol on Sunday but not on this source, it will help the people in that Anzac Day. The Government's approach to area by taking it from them and help us by the matter is an outmoded one, and it forces giving it to us. motorists to buy petrol illegally. The only alternative for a motorist if his car's fuel The committee formed to investigate this tank is nearly empty is not to drive it. I proposal comprises Mr. S. Coulter, represent­ suggest that the Minister look at the matter ing the New South Wales Electricity Com­ and correct the present anomaly by allowing mission; Mr. T. N. Mcintosh, representing service stations to sell petrol on Anzac Day. New South Wales Department of Public Works; and Mr. I. P. Cuneen, representing Debate, on motion of Mr. Wright, the New South Wales Water Conservation adjourned. and Irrigation Commission. The secretary of The House adjourned at 5.23 p.m.