FORESTS COMMISSION VICTORIA AUSTRALIA

FIFTY FIFTH ANNUAL REPORT FINANCIAL YEAR 1973-7 4

presented to both Houses of Parliament pursuant to Act No 6254, secfion 35.

No. 16.-8203174.-PRICE 90 cents

FORESTS COMMISSION, VICTORIA 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne, 3002.

ANNUAL REPORT 1973-7 4

In compliance with the provisions of section 35 of the Forests Act 1958 (No. 6254) the Forests Commission has the honour to present to Parliament the following report of its activities and financial statements for the financial year 1973-74.

F. R. MOULDS, Chairman. A. J. THREADER, Commissioner. J. H. COSSTICK, Commissioner.

D. J. LENNE, Secretary. Melbourne, 25th October, 1974.

CONTENTS

CHAPTER TITLES

Page

6 FEATURES.

7 INTRODUCTION.

9 MANAGEMENT- Forest Areas, Surveys, Forest Assessment, Management Plans, Plantation Extension Planning, Forest Land Use Planning, Forest Recreation, Forest Parks and Other Reserves, Public Relations, Forest Mapping.

14 OPERATIONS- Silviculture of Native Forests, Seed Collection, Softwood Plantations, Hardwood Plantations, Extension Services, Utilization, Grazing, Forest Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Transport, Buildings, Reclamation and Conservation Works, Forest Prisons, Legal, Search and Rescue Operations, Relief Works.

30 ECONOMICS AND MARKETING- The Timber Industry, Sawlog Production, Veneer Logs, Pulpwood, Other Forest Produce, Industrial Undertakings, Other Activities, The Timber Promotion Committee.

35 PROTECTION- Fire, Radio Communications, Fire Research, Biological Protection.

40 EDUCATION AND RESEARCH- Education-School of Forestry, Creswick, University of Melbourne, Monash University, Overseas and Other Studies, Head Office Library ; Research-Silviculture, Genetics, Forest Management, Hydrology, Pathology, Entomology, Ecology, Biological Survey ; Publications.

46 CONFERENCES.

47 ADMINISTRATION- Personnel-Staff, Industrial, Number of Employees, Relief Works, Workers Compensation, Staff Training ; Methods ; Stores ; Finance.

APPENDICES- 51 I. Statement of Output of Produce. 52 II. Causes of Fi res. 52 Ill. Summary of Fires and Areas Burned. 53 IV. Type of Area Burned in State Forest and National Parks. 53 v. Classification of Fire Acreages in State Forest and National Parks. 53 VI. Monthly Outbreaks of Fire. 54 VII. Protection Works-Summary. 55 VIII. Contracts.

Financial Statements- 55 IX. Works and Services Expenditure. 56 x. Statement of Revenue and Appropriated Expenditure. 56 XI. Forestry Fund. 57 XII. Statement of Forestry Fund Expenditure. 57 XIII. Sundry Debtors. 58 XIV. Forests Stores Suspense Account and Forests Plant and Machinery Fund. 59 xv. Proposed Disbursements and Estimated Receipts, 1974-75.

Other /tem- XVI. Forest Reserves of Victoria-Map. FEATURES

Acres Area of reserved forest 5,671,802 Output of logs from State forests (including veneer logs)- Super. Ft. H.L.V. Hardwood 403,961,651 Softwood 62,603,532

Total 466,565, l 83

Revenue- $ Royalties received from sale of forest produce 7,556, 192 Total amount paid to Consolidated Revenue 8,775,096

Expenditure authorized by- Forests Act 1958, No. 6254- Section 30-Forestry Fund 3,848,613 Section 32-Plant and Machinery Fund 525,530 Appropriation Acts 5,972, l 12 State Forests Works and Services Acts 4,658,250 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE FORESTS COMMISSION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30th JUNE, 197 4

INTRODUCTION Timber Requirements

Present day concern with " quality of life " issues follows on from the Timber belief that basic life-support requirements such as food and shelter may Requirements be taken for granted. Australia has long been a substantial exporter of food, producing much more than its domestic requirements. However, the reverse situation applies to timber which is the constructional material used in over 97% of houses built in Victoria today. Over one-third of our timber needs are imported into this country and at much higher cost than locally produced material. Apart from cost there is serious doubt whether overseas countries will have surplus timber supplies available for import into Australia in the future. Much depends on the progress which those under-developed countries with extensive forest reserves make towards improving the standard of living of their people. Housing represents almost 70% of the market for sawn timber produced in Victoria and fortunately for forestry planning it is possible to predict with reasonable reliability the demand for housing in the future. Estimates must be made of the ratio of single family housing to medium density development (flats), the rate of assisted immigration, the replacement rate of Victoria's stock of 1,200,000 dwellings and the demand for second homes, but a basic consideration is that the children born in any year can be expected to require housing some 25 years later. Victoria's current rate of homebuilding, 38,000 units per annum, is nearly double that of 20 years ago and estimates for the year 2000 are double again, i.e. 80,000 dwellings per annum. Only half the total quantity of wood in a forest is suitable for conversion to sawn timber but markets for the smaller or lower quality material are found in the manufacture of fibreboards and paper products of various kinds. Estimates of future demand for these products together with those for sawn timber show clearly that the natural hardwood forests of this State, even including the 300,000 acres of fast-growing Ash species that resulted from the 1939 bushfires, will be totally unequal to meeting our own wood requirements in the future. This is the reason for the Commission's softwood plantation program which represents an investment by the present generation exclusively for the benefit of the next, for, even though by world standards they grow quickly, softwoods take some 30-35 years to reach maturity. On comparable sites softwoods grow ten times as much wood as hardwoods in a given period of time so that it would require only 3 or 4% of the total State Forest area to be in softwoods to ensure future wood supplies. For various reasons the best forest resource to meet the community's needs for timber is one that is a complementary mixture of hardwood and softwood species. Victoria's natural forests produce hardwood timber of high quality which admirably complements that produced from plantation grown softwoods. To ensure that sufficient hardwood timber is available to meet expanding requirements, the natural forest must be maintained in a healthy productive condition and suitable non-productive sites reforested.

7 Despite all the difficulties connected with the current softwood program, of which the provision of finance is only one, the Commission believes that its completion is the only practical way of balancing supply and demand for wood in the future. However, the importance of sensitive integration of new plantations with natural vegetation with respect to both landscape and habitat preservation is fully recognised.

Timber Production Timber Production Output of sawlogs totalled 466,565, l 83 super feet H.L.V. and was slightly below production for the previous year. Demand was high for most of the year, but a shortage of finance for home building brought about a decline towards the close of the year. Production was affected by labour shortages in sawmills and in the forests. Above average rainfall and some serious flooding also hindered removal of logs from the forests.

Metric Conversion Metric Conversion All necessary arrangements have been made for the conversion of timber industry and forestry units of measure to metric equivalents on l st July 1974. This report is presented using imperial units, but future reports will be in metric measurements.

8 MANAGEMENT Forest Areas The area of reserved forest at 30th June, 1974 was 5,671,802 acres. Forest Areas Purchases of freehold land totalling 3,265 acres were made for extension of softwood plantations and for various forest purposes. A further 13 acres was purchased in the Dandenong Ranges for conservation of the forest environment. Negotiations for purchases of 30 additional properties in the Dandenong Ranges were initiated, and preparatory work is in hand for purchase of a further 200 lots. Surveys Cadastral surveys were carried out in fifteen forest districts to demarcate Surveys new reserved forest boundaries resulting from land dealings involving exchange, purchase and dedication. Forest Assessment A survey of 675,000 acres of coastal and foothill forests in Orbost and Forest Assessment Cann Valley forest districts was undertaken to review estimates of sawlog and pulpwood resources. Assessments were made of 13,750 acres of mountain forests in Nee rim and Broadford districts. The vegetation and scenic resources of an area of 14,000 acres of sub­ alpine forests in Marysville forest district were surveyed with a new technique developed for evaluation of qualities of forest landscapes. An area of 55,000 acres of mountain forest in Orbost district was surveyed to evaluate both scenic and timber resources. Surveys in new coniferous plantations continued and the growth potential of l 0,000 acres of 8 to 12 years old plantations was assessed. Coloured photographs of large sections of Victorian forests were prepared from multi-spectral imagery received from the Earth Resources Technology Satellite. The photographs are useful to display zones of different natural vegetation types, forest plantations and areas burnt by wildfires.

A picnic area in Angahook Forest Park. More than three million visits are made each year to State forests by people seeking a variety of recreation experiences. Fo rest management must integrate this usage into the forest in such a way that the visitors are satisfied and the forest is protected.

9 Management Plans Management Plans During the year, emphasis was given to the preparation and revision of yield estimates from both hardwood forests and softwood plantations. Round timber for preservative treatment and for pulpwood is now available from the Portland softwood plantation project, where plantings first commenced in 1961 and are now proceeding at the rate of 1,000 acres per year. The Government has endorsed the Commission's program of developing 60,000 acres of State plantations in the Portland and Rennick projects, and this has enabled planning for the development of a large integrated industry in this area. Estimates of the volumes of pulpwood available from hardwood forests were revised, and a review is being made of the growth and condition of the foothill forests of western Gippsland which have been in use for intensive pulpwood harvesting since 1946. Management plans for hardwood forests and softwood plantations have been prepared and revised, and new planning procedures introduced. Measures to control forest operations for the protection of soils, water quality and the environments of streams have been consolidated and strengthened.

Plantation Extension Planning Plantation The second five-year program under the Commonwealth Softwood Extension Planning Forestry Agreements Act 1972 provides for annual plantings of 11,580 acres of softwoods in Victoria to 30th June, 1976. The planned annual areas of planting and progress to J une 1974 for each zone are shown in the table below-

Plann ed Annual Planted at Zone Planting June, 1974 A creage

Central . . 2,000 8,300 Benalla-Mansfield 1,730 16,400 Ovens .. 1,600 35,700 Upper Murray 1,000 I 5,500 Latrobe .. 1,700 16,800 Portland-Rennick . . 1,500 27,200 Balla rat 1,550 21,900 Otways 500 9,100 Totals .. I 11,580 150,900

A self-loading transport carries pine logs from a plantation at Rennick. ~~

10 Within the eight plantation development zones, areas selected for Plantation planting form a small part of the total forest area. Large areas remain Extension Planning under native forest to provide other community needs, including hard­ wood timber production, recreation and flora and fauna habitat. In each zone planning provides for the use of purchased freehold land wherever possible, and the location of plantations within the natural landscape is designed to preserve scenic values. Plantations of fast growing ash eucalypts are being extended at the rate of about 900 acres annually, mainly in the Strzelecki Ranges on abandoned farmland.

Forest Land Use Planning Surveys for forest land use zoning in connection with Land Conservation Forest Land Council investigations were completed during the year on approximately Use Planning 4,760,000 acres of reserved forest, protected forest and associated freehold land. Forest land use zones have also been defined for the Grampians State Forest covering 520,000 acres. Detailed submissions have been made to the Land Conservation Council regarding forest land use in District 2 of the North Eastern Study Area and for the Melbourne Study Area.

Forest Recreation Increasing numbers of people are using State forests for a variety of Forest Recreation recreational activities. The most popular areas require constant maintenance and protection, with increasing allocations of staff and funds. Surveys of the impact of visitor usage indicate the need for more controls and protective works. Facilities in new areas were designed and located to minimise impact on the forests while affording maximum benefit to visitors. The role of forests as a tourist attraction was submitted in evidence to the State Development Committee during its inquiry into the develop­ ment and promotion of tourism in Victoria.

The Honora ble F. J. Grante r, M.L.C., Minister of Forests, congratulates Mr. T. W. Mitche ll, M.P. at the official opening of the Tom Mitchell Rese rve a t She lley on May 10th 1974.

11 Forest Parks and Other Reserves Forest Parks and The Mount Arapiles Forest Park of 3,460 acres, Wych itella Forest Park Other Reserves of 3,061 acres and Enfield Forest Pa rk of 12,300 acres, together with four special purpose reserves were set aside under Section 50 of t he Forests Act. The Gobarup Wildflower Reserve was set aside for its unique flora, the Dargile Reserve for its value as a scenic picnic area, and the Moliagul Historic Reserve as a setting for the monument which commemorates the finding of the Welcome Stranger gold nugget. The Tom Mitchell Reserve at Shelley, an area of 4! acres with picnic facilities and visitor amenities, was opened by the Hon . F. J. Granter, M.L.C., Minister of Forests, on 10th May, 1974. Forest Parks and other Reserves at 30th June, 1974 were- No. Acres Forest Parks 16 IOI .IOI * Alpine Reserves 3 17,949* Roadside Reserves 5 1,275 Scenic Reserves . . 33 6,682 Special Purpose Reserves 56 12,257

Totals .. 113 139,264

•Areas of scenic and special purpose reserves enclosed within forest parks an d alpine reserves not included.

His Excellency the Governor of Victoria unveiled a plaque at Flinders Peak in the You Yangs Forest Park to commemorate the bicentenary celebrations of Matthew Flinders. Public meetings and consultations with advisory committees were held to discuss the development plan for the Mt. Buller Alpine Reserve. The plan envisages development of the area for year-round recreation w ith major use for snow sports.

Public Relations Public Relations Publications on forestry were supplied to various interested groups, especially schools and youth organizations. Information was sought on the forests generally, on nature conservation in forests and on recreational facilities.

Camping in a pine forest at the Delatite Arm Forest Re serve at Lake Eildon. This is an example of successful integration of outdoor recreation and wood production.

12 A colour booklet on the Grampians State Forest was published. Booklets Public Relations were prepared on Mt. Cole and Creswick State Forests, Koetong Planta- tion and scenic drives in several forest areas. The publication /1 Forestry in Victoria /1 was reprinted. A total of 9,000 maps was sold. A colour film entitled /1 The Living Forest /1 was released. The Commission sponsored the film and provided technical direction. Demand for showings of the film is very strong.

Forest Mapping

New maps of the Grampians Wonderland Forest Park, and Forest Parks Forest Mapping and Reserves of Victoria, were published. Maps of The Grampians, Mt. Buller Alpine Reserve and the Alpine Walking Track were reprinted with revisions. A new map of Sherbrooke Forest Park is in preparation. Topographical maps of the Ararat Hills and Mt. Baw Baw Ski Village were completed, together with maps of softwood plantation areas in the Eastern Strzelecki Ranges, Taggerty and Marysville forest districts, and the management zones and vegetation types of the Grampians.

Former marginal farmland in South Gippsland in the process of reforestation. Plantings include native species (E. regnans) and exotics (Pinus radiata).

13 OPERATIONS

Silviculture of Native Forests

Silviculture of Regeneration treatments, or other silvicultural operations, were carried Native Forests out on a total of 34,682 acres of hardwood forest during the year. Labour from Rural Relief schemes ceased to be available early in the financial year and consequently the extent of silvicultural operations, particularly tending operations, was significantly reduced by comparison with the previous two years. Regeneration treatments of native forests (acres) 1973-74-

Regeneration Induced Aerial Forest Type Fel Iing/Natural Hand Total Seedfal I Seedfal I Sowing Sowing

Ash ...... 34S 70S 2,367 761 4, 178 Mixed species H'h{l30'+ . . .. 140 200 S62 3S3 l,2SS eig t 90' - 130 ' . . 2,109 S, 127 134 2SI 7,621 Class 90, _ .. .. 226 30S .. .. S31 River Red Gum ...... IS IS Box lron bark . . . . 16S ...... 16S Totals 1973-74 . . .. 2,98S 6,337 3,063 1,380 13,76S Totals 1972-73 .. .. 6,9S8 8,237 3,SS8 1,192 19,94S Totals 1971-72 . . .. 7,8S9 9,341 4, l 3S I ,S76 22,911

Wet weather during late summer and autumn reduced the extent of planned regeneration burning operations in all areas except the Central Highlands. Preparation of seedbeds by mechanical methods was undertaken as an alternative technique on some mountain ash and wet sclerophyll mixed species sites, and increased use was made of planting.

World Forestry Day was celebrated in many countries throughout the world on March 21st. The Commission, in conjunction with a State Committee for World Forestry Day representing many other organisations, including the timber trade, conservation groups and educationists, mounted a display in Melbourne City Square.

14 Other Silvicultural Treatments Tending treatments of native forests (acres) 1973-74-

Ocher Forest Type Coppicing Thinning Liberation Silviculturat Total Treatment Treatment

Ash ...... 450 320 .. 770 Mixed species H . h {130' + ...... 376 . . 376 eig t 90' -130' .. 60 823 9,839 15 10,737 Class 90, _ l'ii: .. .. 20 323 405 30 778 River Red Gum .. .. 130 755 160 . . 1,045 Box lronbark .. .. 2,036 4,805 100 160 7,101 Native Pine ...... 90 20 .. 110 Totals 1973-74 .. . . 2,246 7,246 11,220 205 20,917 Totals 1972-73 .. 3,486 17,105 15,464 690 36,745 Totals 1971-72 .. • : i 3,849 13,480 9,791 2,565 29,685

The extent of tending in native forests was limited by funds and the availability of markets for the smaller or inferior stems which need to be removed to provide additional growing space for the better trees. Utilization operations, both by licensees and departmental employees, were used to the maximum extent possible to achieve silvicultural benefits.

Seed Collection Seed collection was assisted by the purchase of additional tandem Seed Collection trailers to transport seed bearing material from the forest. Extraction of the seed was facilitated by an increase in the number of kilns at district centres. Eucalypts Because of generally poor capsule crops, considerable effort was required to obtain the necessary quantity of seed and collection costs were significantly above 1972-73 levels. Production of eucalypt seed was 476 lbs less than the previous year. Pinus radiata The collection of P. radiata seed has increased significantly but is still short of overall requirements. To supplement stocks, 900 lbs of seed was purchased from South Australia. The yield of cones during 1973-74 was the best for many years and some 900 bags of cones were processed.

Other species Seed for extension nurseries was collected by staff and employees except for a few species which were purchased, as suitable seed sources were not available in Victoria. Weight of seed collected (lbs)-

Species 1973-74 1972-73 1971-72 1970-71 1969-70

P. radiata .. .. 1,846 1,301 993 693 200 Other Conifers .. .. 18 12 77 37 .. E. regnans .. '. 268 309 779 637 313 E. delegatensis .. . . 3,919 4,139 6,932 4,618 1,566 E. obliqua and other stringybark types .. l,938 2,720 2,211 1,430 397 E. nitens .. .. 157 86 31 25 52 Other eucalypts .. 1,335 839 79 156 122 Acacias ...... 3 224 478 277 451 Other species .. .. 241 303 339 352 255

Totals .. .. 9.725 9,933 11,919 8,225 3,356

-~----·------15 Softwood Plantations

Seasonal Conditions

Softwood The establishment of plantings in 1973 was generally good, due to very Plantations favourable weather conditions experienced in most parts of the State. Delays to operations caused by periods of wet weather in the summer were offset by a dry March and April which enabled most works, other than contract clearing, to be completed on schedule.

Nurseries

The mild growing season with regular rain was favourable for growth and the standard of plants raised in Commission nurseries was very satisfactory. A prototype mechanical lifting machine performed well in initial trials, and a new reciprocating undercutter also proved satisfactory.

Hand-planting of eucalypt seedlings on marginal farmland which the Commission has acquired in South Gippsland.

16 Production and despatch of nursery stock- Softwood Plantations Plants Raised in 1973-7 4 Seed Sown Plants Species in 1973 . Despatched (lbs.) One-year- Two"year- in 1973-H old Stock old Stock Total

P. radiata . . .. 2,020 14,052,294 900,000 14,952,294 8,697,700 Ps. menziesii .. . . 50 1,014,000 961,600 1,975,600 152,500 P. nigra ...... 5 38,000 215,500 253,500 110,500 Other softwood species .. 6 107,400 483,600 591,000 97,800 Totals .. .. 2,081 15,211,694 2,560,700 17,772,394 9,058,500

Clearing A total of 9,099 acres was cleared for new softwood plantations of which 32 per cent was by contract and 68 per cent with departmental equipment.

Site Preparation Ploughing was carried out on 6,470 acres of the 1974 planting area. Approximately 70 per cent of this work was carried out by contract and the balance with departmental equipment. In contrast to contract clearing, the performance of ploughing contractors was good. Ripping was carried out on 1,050 acres. Appropriate site preparation was carried out on former farmland purchased for plantation extension.

Planting New softwood planting in 1973-74 totalled 13,415 acres, of which 12,610 acres were P. radiata, the balance being principally Ps. menziesii. Callitris priessii seedlings were planted on 100 acres in Mildura forest district. Replanting of clear felled areas in existing plantations amounted to 732 acres, of which 121 acres consisted of conversion of unsatisfactory species to mainly P. radiata. Very few renewals of 1973 plantings were necessary due to the favour­ able weather conditions during the year.

Species used in new planting (acres)-

Net Area Planted Species 1973-74 I 1972-73 I 1971-72 1970-71 1969-70 : P. radiata .. .. 12,610 10,932 10,759 11,767 5,964 P. pinaster ...... 5 . . .. 154 Ps. menziesii .. . . 480 44 389 219 19 P. nigra ...... 135 268 75 28 6 Other softwood .. .. 190 351 194 73 22

' Totals .. .. 13,415* 11,600 11,417 12,087 6,165

• Subject to survey.

Location of new plantings-1973 season-

District Acres District Acres

Rennick 1,327 Beechworth .. 344 Benalla 1,120 Creswick .. 336 Myrtleford l,031 Eastern Otways 307 Tallangatta 741 Macedon 280 Mirboo 711 Niagaroon 239 Toolangi 691 Beaufort 216 Yarram 594 Ballarat 121 Daylesford 517 Casterton 97 Mansfield 480 Stawell 80 Erica 402 Gellibrand 60 Marysville 380 Bright 341 Total .. 10,415

17 8203/74.-2 Softwood Replanting after felling (acres)- Plantations Species

1973-74 1972-73 1971-72 1970--71 1969-70 Previous Crop New Crop

P. radiata .. . . P. radiata . . 611 714 654 392 580 P. ponderosa . . P. radiata . . 58 90 14 55 113 P. nigra . . . . P. radiata .. 6 IS 26 34 .. P. muricata .. .. P. radiata .. . . 12 31 . . . . P. muricata .. . . Cryp. Japonica ...... II . . . . Other softwoods .. P. nigra ...... 22 ...... P. nigra . . .. Other softwoods .. 34 4 " 6 .. .. Other softwoods .. P. radiata ...... 20 . . .. P. radiata . . .. Ps. menziesii ...... 16 . . . . Other softwoods . . Other softwoods . . 23 ......

Totals .. 732 8S7 778 481 693 I

Location of replanting after felling (acres)-

Conversion work Replanting D is trice with Totals P. rad iaca Acres from Species To Species

Myrtleford .. .. 167 6 P. nigra P. rad iata 173 Ballarat . . .. 140 6 P. nigra P. radiata 140 Gellibrand . . . . 102 34 P. nigra Ps. menziesii 17 Ps. menziesii Cryp. japonica 13 P. ponderosa P. radiata 169 3 Ps. menziesii Seq. gigantea J Bright .. .. 90 ...... 90 Castlemaine . . 57 ...... 57 Nee rim .. .. 55 ...... SS Beech worth .. .. 45 P. ponderosa P. radiata 48 3 P. ponderosa Seq. gigantea } Totals . . 611 121 .. .. 732

Tending In the younger plantations, 9,750 acres were cleaned manually and 9,430 acres were aerially sprayed to control competing weed and scrub growth. A total of 860 acres was aerially sprayed w ith zinc sulphate solution in Casterton and Rennick districts, and 1,290 acres were manually treated with superphosphate to stimulate growth on poorer soils, principally in Erica and Ballarat districts.

Part of the forest nursery at Olsen's Bridge in South Gippsland. The nursery is operated in conjunction with the Prisons Division, Department of Social Welfare, and provides tree seedlings for reforestation programs in Gippsland.

18 Tending of softwood plantations- Softwood Plantations Acreage Treated Nature of Treatment 1973-74 1972-73 1971-72 1970-71 1969-70

Cleaning-ground .. 9,750 18,153 19,852 15,306 18,758 aerial .. .. 9,430 6,913 5,934 3,549 670 Firming ...... 812 951 1,760 902 780 Fertilization .. .. 2,150 5,353 4,336 2,050 1,500 Pruning ...... 532 1,054 808 302 971 Thinning-non-commercial .. 34 162 219 146 21 commercial .. 2,605 2,600 2,476 2,338 2,987

Weed and Pest Control The excellent co-operation received from staff of the Vermin and Noxious Weeds Destruction Board enabled losses of young trees due to rabbits and other vermin to be kept to very low levels. Blackberry infestation has continued to extend within some forest areas because of operational difficulties in achieving effective control.

Utilization A total of 991 acres was clear felled at maturity and 159 acres were clear felled due to unsatisfactory growth. The increase in the total area clear felled was in accordance with cutting plans prepared to meet softwood timber supply commitments. Areas treated during utilization (acres)-

··-~~··--·------

Operations 1973-74 1972-73 1971-72 1970-71 1969-70

Thinnings .. 2,605 2,600 2,476 2,576 3,023 Clear fellings- mature stands ...... 991 760 604 630 458 for conversion due to unsatisfactory growth 159 175 127 71 74 road Ii n es, etc. . . 41 37 40 79 127 Salvage- storm .. 40 3 123 71 458 fire I 10 2 19 ··--

Seed Orchards Established seed orchard areas produced increased quantities of seed. At Daylesford 940 lbs. of P. radiata seed was extracted from cones collected at Korweinguboora, the oldest of the seed orchards. A further 71 lbs. of seed was obtained in Geelong district as the first yield from the Borhoneyghurk seed orchard. The Campaspe orchard has not yet commenced production.

Farm Forestry Loan Scheme In 1973-74, seventeen new agreements were negotiated, and advances to agreement holders totalled $31,204. Six agreements were terminated, four because of the sale of the property concerned and two to enable new agreements to replace earlier agreements. The summary below shows the position since the commencement of the scheme.

Total lot Ju. ly, 1973-74 1966 to 30th I lune, 1974 !

Agreements effected .• 17 112 Net loan commitments .. $74,900 $348,092 Net advances made $31,204 $245,913 Net acreage agreed 1,498 7,075 Net acreage planted 1,158 4,505

19 Hardwood Plantations

Nurseries Hardwood The seven nurseries raising hardwood stocks for Commission plantings Plantations increased output by 25 per cent. The greatest quantity was grown at the Olsen's Bridge prison nursery in Morwell district and production started at the nursery at the Won Wron prison in Yarram district. Increased use of paper veneer tubes reduced production costs. The following is a summary of eucalypt tube stock raised for depart­ mental purposes in 1973-74-

···--- Species Number Species Number

Eucalyptus regnans .. 762,200 Blue Gum species .. 45,000 Eucalyptus obliqua .. 308,800 Eucalyptus fastigata .. 6.400 Eucalyptus nitens .. 253,500 Eucalyptus melliodora 2,000 Eucalyptus delegatensis 106,000 Eucalyptus maculata 1,000 Eucalyptus viminalis .. 79,700 Mixed eucalypts 17,000 Eucalyptus cladocalyx 85,000 Total 1,666,600

Planting Approximately 950 acres were cleared for planting, 908 acres being cleared departmentally. Mechanical site preparation was carried out on a further 339 acres. As in the previous year, the major areas planted were in Mirboo and Yarram forest districts.

Summary of hardwood plantings (acres)-

Type of Planting 1973-74 1972-73 1971-72 1970-71 1969-70 I i

New plantings ...... 1,307 1,476 818 1,001 1,413 Gravel pit reclamation .. .. 110 23 13 32 55 Forest park and amenity .. .. 6 14 13 34 23 Miscellaneous other .. .. 9 29 ...... Totals ...... 1,432 1,542 844 1,067 1,491 I

Location of hardwood plantings 1973-74- ...... s:: ...... :( ...... c::.s:; e ,. Total .!! ; ...... ;5 u= ,,~ " ...... 0. Planting ~.= ~< -;;" ., .. en District !~ .... ·- ::E.. ., ".. ~" .. c:: .! c: "E ..c:: .0 .. 1i ...... :> ·- c:: "" .. .. 0 .:]. > .. o=: ·E:E..c ;:;~ ..c (Acres) .:£: i ·< .:£: ·l: •en •en w~ w- w- w- i, w- .__ w- 0 ----__ __ -- Mirboo ...... 588 SH .. 14 .. .. Orbost ...... 175 .. .. 20 155 .. .. Yarram ...... 150 146 .. 4 ...... Neerim ...... 120 100 10 .. . . 10 .. Geelon\'' .. .. 66 .. .. 66 . . Upper arra .. .. 56 28 12 .. .. 14 .. 2 Erica ...... 50 50 ...... Stawell ...... 45 ...... 25 20 Eastern Otways .. .. 44 ...... 44 .. . . Dimboola .. .. 28 ...... 26 2 Creswick .. .. 25 .. .. 4 5 .. . . 16 Toolangi .. .. 20 .. .. 10 .. .. 10 Gellibrand .. .. 17 .. .. 2 15 ...... Daylesford .. .. 13 ...... 13 .. . . Trentham .. .. 10 ...... 10 Nowa Nowa .. .. 9 ...... 9 Castlemaine .. .. 6 ...... 6 Broadford .. .. 5 .. 5 ...... Shepparton .. .. 5 ...... 5 Totals .. .. 1,432 898 27 34 97 179 127 10

20 Extension Services The sale of pine seedlings to private companies and individuals increased Extension Services during the 1973 season. Sales amounted to 3 · 5 million seedlings-a quantity sufficient for the establishment of approximately 5, 150 acres. The sale of other types of plants also increased and total sales during the 1973 season were as follows- 1. Regional Nurseries- P. radiata 3,510,000 Other species 1,000 2. Extension Nurseries Mixed Species-(Eucalypts, acacias, deciduous shrubs} Creswick 183,300 Macedon 226,600 Mildura 18,400 Wail 151,900

Total 580,200

Some 62,050 pine seedlings and 7, l 00 hardwood seedlings were provided to schools throughout Victoria as free issues to School Endowment Plantations. Approximately 20,000 tubed seedlings were supplied to the Keep Australia Beautiful Committee, and were distributed in Melbourne and the larger provincial cities to encourage peopfe to plant and appreciate trees. The number of enquiries from the general public for information on a wide range of tree planting questions and associated matters increased. Other sales included 124 lbs. of seed and l 0,600 Christmas trees. A total of 16,237 nursery price lists was distributed.

Seed Gardens Further plantings were undertaken at the seed gardens recently estab­ lished on old nursery sites at Beechworth, Bright and Myrtleford. The total number of species represented has been increased to 160.

Special Projects Some 47,000 plants were raised for the Fisheries and Wildlife Division of the Ministry of Conservation for planting in reserves under its control. The project for the revegetation of the Puckapunyal Military area continued, and l 00,000 seedlings were planted by Commission labour. With the planting of a further 34,000 plants, the establishment of sound and wind barriers surrounding Melbourne Airport was completed. Establishment of the Arboretum on the site of the old Olinda plantation in the Dandenongs forest district continued, 20,000 trees being planted during the year.

Utilization The strong demand for pulpwood gave impetus to the introduction of Utilization integrated logging producing both sawlogs and pulpwood in one operation. More pulpwood was taken in long lengths, either directly to chippers or to splitting sites.

21 Utilization The severe and intensifying shortage of labour for forest operations, which is affecting production in some areas caused a revival of interest in more modern equipment. The amalgamation of sawmills and the increasing demand for pulpwood are providing contractors with sufficiently large volumes to justify costly, high production equipment. An increase in the price of eucalyptus oil has occurred which has sup­ ported innovations and new harvesting techniques in the industry. The Joint Operations Committees, comprising representatives of local sawmillers and the Commission, continued to function with benefit to the efficiency of logging operations. Grants were made to municipalities from the Municipalities Forest Roads Improvement Fund to the limit of funds available. Work on some important roads serving significant areas of forest and carrying large volumes of forest produce had to be deferred because the Fund was insufficient.

Grazing

Grazing Regular and heavy rainfall in all parts of the State resulted in increased growth of grass and forage. However, demand for forest grazing decreased slightly due to ample feed being available on private property. Stocking levels were closely controlled but because of the good season no reductions were necessary. In fact, more stock could have been grazed safely in most areas of the State. Stock had to be withdrawn from Murray River areas for extended periods because of extensive flooding. More dams were constructed in St. Arnaud district for the better watering and control of stock. Fencing in the Murray River forests was heavily damaged by floodwater and extensive renewals are necessary. Grazing of young plantation areas continues to be most useful in control­ ling fire hazard until the tree canopy closes and suppresses forage growth. There was a good demand for grazing on areas purchased for plantation expansion. · Investigatory work on grazing continued viz-improving the growth of native pastures at Barmah, trial plots at Bendigo and range management trials at Heathcote. The Barmah Grazing Advisory Committee met three times for the purpose of setting stocking levels. The favourable summer season allowed 3,303 head of cattle to be agisted in the forest but due to early and severe flooding no cattle could be accepted for the winter term. New accommodation was provided for musterers at the Barmah yards. The demand for bee sites continued to remain high with very few sites not taken.

Forest Engineering

Survey and Design Forest Engineering The main project for the year was the investigatory survey of reading in the ash regrowth areas in the Thompson Valley in Erica district. Other projects included survey investigations and road design for a bridge over Gisborne Creek in Trentham district, plans for a pedestrian bridge in Creswick district and determination of desirable road standards for the Sherbrooke Road in the Dandenongs forest district. 22 Road Construction Forest Engineering

Miles Construct ed Total Mileage or Road Stan dard Co m mission Roads 1973- 74 1972- 73 1971 - 72 as ac 30.6.H

Native Forests- Primary roads ...... 4 10 31 1,704 Secondary roads ...... 28 27 27 6,244 Fi re protection and access tracks . . 109 158 11 2 11,801 - 141 - 195 - 170 --- 19,749 Plantation Extension Areas- Primary roads ...... 10 9 12 170 Secondary roads ...... 48 59 69 691 Fire protection and access t racks .. 63 52 38 444 - 121 - 120 - 119 --- 1,305 Established Plantations- Primary roads ...... 106 Secondary roads ...... 3 11 13 562 Fi re protection and access t racks . . 4 4 s 35 1 - 7 - 15 - 18 --- 1,019 Totals ...... 269 330 307 22,073

River red gum forest on Gunbower Is land. The photograph shows the d iverse structure of the forest and the floodwaters on which the forest depends for survival and growth.

23 Forest Engineering Construction of roads for the extraction of forest produce and the management and protection of State forest, continued. A total of 269 miles of road was constructed and 60 miles of road surfaced for the first time. As larger wood-using industries become established, there is an increased requirement for all weather roads to ensure regular supplies of wood throughout the year. The sealing of the last l · 7 miles of the Tamboritha Road to the foot of the mountain was completed, bringing the total length of seal to 14 miles. A further 61 miles of roads and tracks were improved sufficiently to lift the standard of road into a higher class for royalty determination.

Road Maintenance The 15,900 miles of road maintained was an increase of some 400 miles over the previous year. However, owing to lack of funds, about one third of the Commission's road network received no maintenance during the year. Heavy rains and flooding caused extensive damage to Com­ mission roads in many areas, with culverts and bridges washed out, surfaces eroded and washaways common. A number of roads have been closed, and additional finance will be necessary for reconstruction and repairs. The maintenance of a vegetative cover by slashing scrub growth on many lesser used tracks is proving successful as a means of maintaining them in usable condition and of preventing erosion. Substantial tourist and recreational traffic on lightly constructed forest roads and tracks necessitated increased expenditure on improvement and maintenance. Resurfacing of roads providing all weather access totalled only 94 miles. An increase in the rate of resurfacing is necessary to meet the requirements of the larger wood using industries for all year round supplies, and to cater for increasing recreational and tourist use of forest roads. Lack of adequate finance to resurface essential forest roads continues to be a matter of serious concern.

Flood Control and Drainage Flooding of the Murray River was almost continuous and much damage occurred to regulators, flood control structures and levee banks. Continued high water levels prevented repair works, and some regu­ lators .will need complete reconstruction. The high river levels intensified the· problem of effluent creeks, many more of whic h were formed during the year.

Regulation of the flow in the River Murray for irrigation has changed the natural water regime in the River red gum forests. Regulators have been installed to control the flo.w of unseasonal water into the forest.

24 Other Works Forest Engineering Fire towers were erected in the Dandenongs, Eastern Otways and Tallangatta districts. A reinforced concrete tank of 20,000 gallons capacity, was constructed at the Melville Caves in the St. Arnaud forest district to provide a reticulated water supply, and six 600 cubic yard dams were also constructed in the same district for fire protection, grazing and beekeeping.

A concrete crib wall-60' by 11' 4"-was constructed at Macedon Nursery for the soil preparation shed.

Mechanical Engineering

Specified plant items ordered during the year included 16 crawler Mechanical tractors, 3 graders and l four-wheel drive tractor. Total value of Engineering plant ordered was $940,000. With the continued acquisition of modern large crawler tractors, it was possible to reduce the fleet of specified plant from a total of 192 machines at 30th June, 1973, to 164 at 30th June, 1974. The construction of a Divisional Workshop was commenced at Traralgon, and additional equipment was installed at Benalla and Orbost workshops. Residential training courses of one week's duration were conducted during the year; a total of twenty men being trained in structural repair procedures on plant and fourteen in basic hydraulics. One man com­ pleted a specialized power shift course.

Transport The total number of vehicles in the fleet at 30th June, 1974 was 592. Transport During the year, 132 administrative, 112 light commercial and 38 heavy commercial vehicles were approved for replacement, but a number of the replacement vehicles have not been supplied. Because of the long delivery delays, some dealers were reluctant to take trade-in vehicles at valuations placed on them some months before, and a number were sold by public auction. Additions to fleet consisted of five administrative and two light commercial vehicles. A twelve-foot aluminium boat fitted with an outboard motor was purchased to replace an existing unit. A trail bike was tested over three months to evaluate its application to specific tasks. Three new types of vehicles, a sedan and two buses were introduced to the fleet for evaluation.

Buildings Building projects completed during the year included a staff residence Buildings at Neerim South and a District office at Forrest. Major extensions were carried out to the administrative centre at Mt. Buller and to District offices at Neerim South, Bruthen, Casterton and Nowa Nowa. Of other buildings, including garages, stores, workshops, toilet blocks, nursery buildings, picnic shelters and checking stations, 29 were completed and 8 were under construction at the close of the year. General maintenance and improvement works were carried out on a large number of offices, residences, depot buildings, toilet blocks and picnic shelters.

25 Reclamation and Conserva·1·ion Works Reclamation and Rehabilitation of sites, from which extractive materials have been Conservation Works removed, continued. Major rehabilitation works were carried out in Creswick, Heyfleld, Bruthen, Shepparton, Casterton, Heywood and Stawell forest districts. Forty-two acres were re-spread with topsoil and ripped ready for planting, and 68 acres previously prepared were planted with eucalypt species in Geelong district. Fifteen acres were ripped and planted in Gellibrand district and 41 acres planted in Trentham district. Some smaller areas, particularly on poor sites, were planted with species suited for honey production. In some areas, the demand for gravel by municipalities is increasing. Erosion control works continued, although the wet conditions seriously restricted works and caused postponement in some districts. An actively eroding gully was controlled in Kimbolton forest, and a concrete drop structure constructed in Shepparton district.

An excellent stand of silvertop in the Boola Boola State Forest. This is a second-rotation forest arising from regeneration following logging early this century.

26 Forest Prisons Penal labour, made available through the Department of Social Welfare, Forest Prisons was engaged mainly on the Eastern Strzelecki Ranges Reforestation Scheme in South Gippsland. Lack of inmates at Morwell River, Won Wron and Cooriemungle restricted the amount of work that could be undertaken. Concentration on work associated with the building of the new nurseries at Won Wron and Cooriemungle and the rehabilitation of the Morwell River nursery aggravated the shortage of labour for field work.

The following table shows activities carried out by prisoners at various locations-

! : Activity Morwell River Won Wron Ararat Cooriemungle

Planting-eucalypts ...... 400 ac. 50 ac. . . .. -softwoods .. 175 ac. 50 ac. .. .. Fertilizer application to newly planted areas ...... 480 ac. SO ac. .. .. Hand clearing ...... 15 ac. 2 ac. . . . . P. radiata plantations -cleaning ...... 60 ac. .. .. -pruning ...... 2 ac...... Thinning-hardwoods ...... 90 ac. Seed collection-eucalypt .. .. 40 lbs. .. 659 lbs. .. Plants raised -E. regnans ...... 507,400 28,400 .. . . -Other eucalypts .. . . 33,700 141,200 .. .. -Otner species .. .. 23,200 1,100 . . .. Road and track maintenance ...... 1,200 cnn. 800 chn. Picnic ground maintenance and construe- .. . . 4 .. ti on Hazard reduction ...... 200 ac. .. Nursery maintenance and construction .. I I .. I

-· ····-~---

Legal

Offences other than fire offences, against the Forest Act 1958- Legal Prosecutions 9 Convictions 8 Information withdrawn l Fines imposed $260 Compensation awarded $901. 51 Of the eight successful prosecutions, seven concerned illegal removal of forest produce and one concerned the possession of a rifle in a Forest Park. The latter prosecution was conducted by the Police Department. Warning letters were issued in six instances where infringements against the Forests Act did not warrant prosecution.

Search and Rescue Operations

Field staff and employees were involved in 14 search and rescue Search and operations in forest areas. Rescue Operations Commission participation in these activities was requested by the Victoria Police, except for one request by the Shire of Omeo Civll Defence Organization. The combination of the Commission's radio network and fleet of 4 x 4 vehicles again proved most effective and was extensively used. 27 Search and Summary of searches for lost and overdue persons 1973-74- Rescue Operations Persons Reported Miles Travelled Manhours of S

Walkers ...... 9 3,365 517 Motorists and trail bike riders .. .. 8 419 55 Sportsmen ...... 5 236 23 Others ...... 6 671 251 Totals 28 4,691 846 1972-73 ...... 49 8,344 2,380 1971 - 72 ...... 91 2,492 663 1970-71 ...... 55 2,768 868 1969-70 ...... 48 3,035 894

Relief Works

Relief Works Both Rural Unemployment Relief and Drought Relief works, financed by grants from the Commonwealth Government, were in operation during the early part of the year. Because of its widespread organization in rural parts of the State, and the backlog of essential works arising from inadequate finance over the preceding years, the Commission was able to immediately provide productive work for the large numbers of men avail able under _these schemes. Many of the men working under the Rural Unemployment Relief scheme were employed for about two years, and had become skilled and valuable members of the Commission's work force. The termination of the ir services has had a marked effect on the capacity of the Commis­ sion to carry out important works in forest areas. Labour was used on a great variety of forest works, including the establishment and treatment of both softwood and hardwood forests, construction and maintenance of buildings, foe protection activities and the provision of recreational facil ities to cater for the increased use of forests by the public.

Stro ng winds caused spectacular damage to stands of mountain ash in the headwaters of the Yarra catchment on December 21st 1973. Three areas of almost complete blowdown are visible in the photograph.

28 Following the closing of the Inland Meat Authority Abattoirs at Relief Works Bendigo, State Government finance was provided for the employment of some of the meatworkers affected. The maximum number of men employed was 15.

Rural Unemployment Relief This scheme commenced on 14th December, 1971 and concluded on 9th October, 1973 when the services of 230 men were terminated. The maximum number of men employed under the scheme was 624 in May, 1973, and 503 were employed in July, 1973. Expenditure during the year was $757, 94 l, bringing the total for the duration of the scheme to $3,793,665.

Drought Relief This scheme also ceased on 9th October, 1973 when the services of 27 men were terminated. Peak employment was 54 during the current financial year and 84 over the duration of the scheme. Expenditure in 1973-74 was $67,297, bringing the total since inception of the scheme in January 1973 to $187,443.

29 ECONOMICS and MARKETING The Timber Industry The Timber Industry The industry has experienced a year of intense activity because of the continued high level of building in both the public and private sectors. All types of sawn timber were generally scarce and most sawmillers cut to orders placed as far as eight weeks in advance. Difficulties in meeting the demand were aggravated by a widespread shortage of sawmill labour and logging contractors. In addition, adverse weather affected log intake late in the year. These factors prevented a number of sawmillers, particularly those in mountainous areas, from obtaining their authorized quota of logs. Elsewhere however, sawmillers responded to the favourable market conditions by applying for log supplies, additional to normal allocations. Sawn timber prices were increased several times during the year. Melbourne is the principal market for timber, but strong local demand was evident in most country areas. Interstate sales in Canberra and Sydney appear to have been maintained at the level achieved last year. The effects of economic measures taken by the Federal Government to restrain demand were felt toward the end of the year. Housing finance was curtailed and building approvals declined markedly. While the industry may operate for a time on the backlog of unfulfilled orders there are strong indications of a contracted market in the coming year. The trend toward reduction of the number of sawmills in Victoria continued and almost thirty sawmills were involved in Company reorganizations. Nine of these were simply transfers of individual ownerships but seven entailed consolidation of two or more allocations at a single millsite. Other reorganizations added single mills to larger Companies. The process of structural adjustment by market forces, while slow, is contributing to stability and efficiency in the industry. Within limits, larger volume throughputs provide scope for improving productivity and reorganization to this end is encouraged. The emerg­ ence of large, vertically integrated companies has continued and this too may exert a stabilizing influence on timber marketing. In two instances, sawmill amalgamation was accompanied by installation of new equipment; several mills were extended or modernized and two mills were redesigned. Sawmill waste from some 70 mills now provides a significant proportion of the raw material intake for five Victorian manufacturers of paper or panel products. Supply of chipped waste from sawmills in East Gipps­ land to Harris-Daishowa (Australia) Pty. Ltd. at Eden has increased and two more sawmills are expected to join this operation shortly.

Sawlog Production Sawlog Production Output of logs (including veneer logs) from State forest during the year was- Hardwood: 403,961,651 super feet H.L.V. Softwood: 62,603,532 super feet H.L.V. Total: 466,565, 183 super feet H.L.V. Production of all items of forest produce is detailed in Appendix I. The output of sawlogs from State forest fell slightly below the 1972-73 level. In East Gippsland log output was 21 million super feet lower than the previous year. However, because millers elsewhere obtained additional logs, the overall reduction in hardwood log production was only 4 · 5 million super feet. Softwood sawlog production also fell slightly. 30 Most Districts report that sawmillers have accepted logs of a lower Sawlog Production standard in the past year. This can be attributed partly to the high level of demand for sawn timber generally and a shortage of accessible log supplies. Applications for additional logs were approved wherever possible, on the basis that sawmillers re-log areas cut-over previously, in order to achieve maximum silvicultural benefit. An important component of current demand is for domestic fencing and pallet material much of which can be obtained from small or defective logs. Revised log standards have been introduced in the Eastern Division in order to increase the volume obtained from each cutting coupe. With co-operation from sawmillers and contractors, yields per acre have risen by up to 20 per cent, with consequent reduction in the area logged and improvement of conditions for regeneration. Late in the year, the Commission advertised the availability of softwood sawlogs in Heywood and Rennick forest districts.

Veneer Logs Production of hardwood veneer logs recovered from the low point of Veneer Logs last year but is still well below the 1971-72 figure. Manufacturers continued to experiment with various species and achieved some success. Use of softwood logs for production of veneer was slightly higher than in 1972-73. Pulpwood The pattern of pulpwood marketing has changed markedly in recent Pulpwood years, with the entry of new manufacturers of paper and panel products, and the increasing availability of thinnings from softwood plantations. The benefit of public investment in plantation establishment is now being realized as major industrial expansion based on this resource gathers momentum. The Myrtleford plant of Australian Forest Industries Pty. Ltd. commenced operations early in the year, producing sawn timber, p reservative treated round timbers, and paper pulp from the Ovens Valley plantations. Manufacturers of particle board at Ballarat and Mt. Gambier obtained increased volumes of pulpwood during the year.

A close-up view of wind damage to mountain ash forest in the Cumberland Scenic Reserve, near Marysville.

31 Pulpwood Several companies have expressed interest in acquinng rights to raw material from developing plantations throughout the State. Late in the year the Commission invited applications for rights to softwood pulpwood from plantations in the Portland area. Of particular significance was the negotiation of new pulpwood supply Agreements with Australian Paper Manufacturers Ltd. The Agreements are embodied in the Forests (Wood Pulp Agreements) Act 1974 which is in two parts. Part I relates to hardwood forests and further amends Agreements made in 1961 and 1966. Part II provides for a new Agreement for softwood forests. In the Agreements, which commence on l st July, 1974, supply areas are redefined, rates of supply prescribed and royalty charges revised. The new Agreements will facilitate management of both hardwood and softwood forests in South Gippsland and the Central Highlands by allowing more flexibility in utilization and marketing. They also provide for the additional raw material required to expand production at Maryvale. The volume of softwood pulpwood supplied to paper companies declined but this decrease was offset by supplies for particleboard manufacture. The output of hardwood pulpwood for paper rose slightly, but the intake of solid pulpwood to the hardboard factory at Bacchus Marsh continued to decline in favour of a larger intake of sawmill residues. Other Forest Produce Other Forest With some exceptions, the demand for traditional forest products such Produce as poles, piles, rail sleepers and firewood continued to decline slowly with the development and promotion of substitute materials which are more readily available.

Poles and Piles Production of piles reached only half the 1972-73 level, but sales of hardwood poles increased by approximately 40 per cent. However, it is not possible to predict reversal of the long term trend of decreasing demand for transmission poles, because more metropolitan services are being installed underground and all major distribution works have been completed. The demand for construction poles, etc. has increased steadily over the past eight years. Pole-type structures have been promoted successfully in rural markets, particularly in association with preservative treatment. Output of softwood poles was marginally smaller than in the previous year.

Sleepers Sleeper cutting was severely hampered by extensive and prolonged flooding in Northern Victoria, the major production area. Many of the forests along the Murray River were inaccessible for long periods. Overall, the State forest output fell by 35 per cent causing supply problems for the Victorian Railways. It is anticipated that more sleepers will be produced in 1974-75. However, in the long term it will be necessary to develop preservative treatment of non-durable species to complement supplies of naturally durable species.

Fencing Timber Sales have fallen slightly since last year, but are still at a high level. The popularity of round softwood posts has increased, with a variety of uses in urban areas other than for fence posts, viz: adventure playgrounds, guardrails and landscape gardening. A small but flourish­ ing industry has grown around preservation of this material.

Minor Forest Products Christmas trees, eucalyptus oil, charcoal and other minor products have been produced from State forest during the past year. Quantities supplied are listed in Appendix I to this report. 32 Industrial Undertakings The Commission provides contract services for the production of many Industrial items of forest produce. Although the net financial return is not large, Undertakings these activities are essential to ensure production from certain forests and provide a supplementary source of manpower in certain d istricts for foe fighting. Financial details of these operations are:- Total revenue $1,490,909 Total expenditure $790,979 Royalty Component (included in total revenue) $671,838 Net Revenue . . $28,092 The profitability of these operations has been reduced by increases in wages and other costs. Pricing policies are being reviewed.

Other Activities

A staff training program was conducted in preparation for the conversion Other Activities to metric measurement of all forest produce on l st July, 1974. Metric measures, conversion aids, and explanatory notes have been provided for all field staff.

The Forest Products Section provided extension services for industry and the general public in the areas of preservation, seasoning, timber grading, and proper use of timber. Timber Inspectors supervised the utilization and distribution of Sirex-suspect timber.

The Australian Forest Industries Ply. Ltd. factory at Myrtleford produces a variety of softwood products from raw material supplied from p lantations in the Ovens Valley.

33 8203/74.-3 The Timber Promotion Committee

The Timber The Timber Promotion Committee continued its activities w ith emphasis Promotion on the educational aspects of promotion. A series of training lectures Committee was arranged to assist industry personnel with the introduction of metric measurement. The Committee also proceeded with the program of training selected personnel as Timber Graders to implement the grading requirements of the Light Timber Framing Code (Australian Standard CA38).

Metric conversion and the Light Timber Framing Code were also the principal themes of a series of eighteen seminars conducted for timber users and specifiers throughout the State. Almost 5,000 builders, merchants, architects and building surveyors attended the seminars.

Audio visual aids were prepared for use in technical and other trade schools.

Direct promotional activities included displays at the Royal Agricultural Show and the Furniture Fashion Fair, press advertisements and distribution of brochures. Technical staff provided information to the trade and public on request.

A temporary bridge constructed to allow sawlogs to be snigged across a mountain stream. Forest operations are carried out in accordance with special management prescriptions to protect water quality.

34 PROTECTION Fire Seasonal Conditions Winter rainfall generally was above average in the north of the State Fire and below average in the south. Following a dry September in East Gippsland, the prohibited period was introduced in that area on l st October, 1973. It was not necessary to introduce foe restrictions in the remainder of the State until December. Spring rains retarded the normal seasonal drying-out of forest fuels, and general summer rains maintained the foe danger at a relatively low level over the whole State. Many areas experienced dry conditions in March and although there were no serious foes}, the lifting of the prohibited period was delayed, the last restrictions being lifted on 5th April, 1974. Because of unfavourable conditions only limited fuel reduction burning was possible during the autumn.

Origins and Incidence of Fires Commission personnel attended 211 foes of which 193 were within the foe protected area. Of the latter, 56 were confined to private property, while l 4 originated in private property and spread to State Forest. A total of 114 foes originated in State Forest and 9 in National Parks. Of foes attended 76% were controlled at less than 10 acres; only one foe burnt in excess of 10,000 acres. A disturbing feature of the foe season was the large number of foes, apparently deliberately lit, in forests adjoining urban development. In several instances only relatively mild conditions and prompt action by suppression forces prevented the development of serious foes. The Commission continued to enjoy the close co-operation of rural foe brigades operating under the Country Fire Authority, in the suppression of foes within or adjacent to the Fire Protected Area.

Four-whe

35 Statistics of Fire Offences Fire Prosecutions 2 Convictions Nil Warning letters were sent in 9 cases which did not warrant prosecution.

Expenditure The cost of fire suppression during the year was $409,271.

Air Operations In accordance with established practice, a helicopter was retained on contract for fire control purposes. This machine was used on a number of occasions to detect outbreaks of fire, direct suppression forces and maintain surveillance in areas where it was suspected that deliberate lighting of fires was taking place. Because of mild conditions only limited use of fixed-wing aircraft was required for fire control. Aerial ignition for fuel reduction burning was hampered because of unfavourable conditions. It was limited to the use of a helicopter for ignition of approximately 40,000 acres in the north-east of the State. The Commission was represented on a committee formed to investigate the potential use of helicopters by various Departments.

Fire Protection Equipment Construction and fitting out was completed on six Bedford 4 x 4 cabs and chassis purchased for use as tankers towards the end of the previous financial year. New purchases included four Ford 4 x 2 cabs and chassis converted to fire tankers, and six Bedford /1 M /1 Series 4 x 4 cabs and chassis for construction of tankers. Six high volume 3" filler pumps, one high pressure 2" pump and three low pressure 11 11 pumps were also purchased.

Maintenance The tanker fleet, pumps, hose and fire-fighting equipment were maintained at Brookwood workshop and in the field.

Detection l\Jinety-five lookout towers were manned during the summer. Aerial patrols were carried out in several instances following known lightning activity in forest areas not directly visible from fixed lookouts.

Fire Protection Training During the period June to October, two Fire Control courses, a specialist Base Camp course and an Instructors Seminar were held. A total of l 03 Departmental officers attended these courses. Visitors, sponsored by the following organisations, attended the courses -The State Electricity Commission, Country Fire Authority, National Parks Service, Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works, A.P.M. Forests Pty. Ltd., Forest Services of the five other States, The Forestry and Timber Bureau and Bulolo Forestry College, Papua-New Guinea. A Fire Orientation course and a specialist Time-keepers course were held during December for Head Office staff likely to be used for emergency fire duties. Training of exempt employees was carried out in all forest districts.

36 Radio Communications

Conversion of radio equipment in the North-Eastern Division to V.H.F. Radio was completed. The network in that Division comprises eight remotely Communications controlled base stations, eight emergency installations at district offices, one base installation at a sub-district office, and units in l 5 towers and 93 vehicles. Conversion of equipment in South-Western Division has commenced. Production of spare components for remaining portable H.F. units has ceased, and maintenance of these units is proving difficult. The V.H.F. conversion programme has been stepped-up and an additional contract let for supply of a further 320 V .H.F. units. On receipt of this order, it will be possible to complete conversion of the remainder of the Commission's field network. Successful tests have been carried out using Light Energy Converters to charge radio batteries. As finance permits, these units will be installed at remote radio sites and towers.

A solar energy converter provides power for a radio installation in a remote forest area. These units, a spin-off from the U.S . space program, come in module form, and generate electric power even in overcast conditions by converting light energy into power. They are being evaluated by Commission radio technologists.

37 Fi re Research Fire Research Studies to develop new techniques of classifying forest fuels in terms of their composition and flammability were commenced. These studies, together with research into weather effects on fuel moisture content, are aimed at improving foe behaviour guides and forest foe danger rating in native forests and exotic plantations.

The role of ground and aerially applied long-term foe retardants for control of wild-foes was further investigated. Retardants have improved the efficiency of first attack and controlled backburning operations in difficult situations by substantially reducing foe intensities in treated fuels under conditions of high foe danger.

Research into the short-term effects of foe in footh ill eucalypt forests of west-central Victoria has been concluded. The studies have indicated that the forests are adapted to a wide range of foe intensities which result in a diversity of habitat suited to the indigenous fauna. The most critical factor appeared to be the frequency of foe occurrence. Long-term studies of this aspect are being planned.

Studies to examine some of the effects of foe on bi rds of the foothill forests have shown that a low intensity foe, which almost completely burnt the understorey vegetation, caused no obvious changes in ranging of the tagged birds. There was no evidence that the burnt area had become unsuitable for any bird species normally resident in the area.

A study was made of fire behaviour and the early effects of foe on the environment in the Mount Buffalo National Park following a severe wild-foe. Specialized techniques of foe suppression have been described. The foe burnt over a wide range of topography, soils and vegetation types and has increased the diversity of the area. Fire was most severe in the sub-alpine complex.

A third Fire Ecology Symposium, sponsored jointly by the Department and Monash University Environmental Studies Group, was held in March 1974. Approximately 460 people attended the symposium, which had a central theme of "The Effects of Fire on the Forest Environment".

Spraying equipment developed by the Commission in co-operation with a helicopter contractor, for control of phasmatids.

·,

38 Biological Protection Insects A helicopter was used for aerial spraying of l ,200 acres of high grade Biological Protection mountain ash forests to control defoliation by phasmatids. Independent spraying equipment consisting of hopper, booms, pump and power supply was slung from the cargo hook of the helicopter, providing a number of advantages over conventional equipment which is mounted on the airframe. Biological control measures against Sirex wasp have been continued with releases of parasites near outbreaks. Heavy attacks by cup moths (Doratifera vulnerans), sawflys (Perga dorsalis) and skeletoniser moths (Uraba spp.) were reported in some northern districts. The wattle fire blight (Paropsis orphana) was detected on several hundred acres of Acacia dealbata at Toolangi.

Pathogens Isolated cases of Phytophthora cinnamomi were reported from several areas of the State, but the fungus has not spread significantly from infected sites on the Errinundra Plateau and Nunnet areas. Regulations have been promulgated requiring all tracked vehicles used in these localities to be washed free of soil before entry to disease-free zones. Golden rust (Melampsora spp.) was evident on poplars in a number of districts. Tree mortality caused by Armillaria mellea has occurred at Mt. Macedon, and leaf blight (Mycosphaerella) affected some 1,000 acres of mountain ash at Toolangi; mistletoe is spreading in forests near Dimboola.

Weeds South African boneseed (Chrysanthemoides monilifera) is well estab­ lished in the You Yangs and in forests near Castlemaine. Blackberries are widespread in many districts and make extraction of forest produce difficult in some areas. The wet summer provided ideal conditions for the growth of Bathurst, California, and Nagoora burrs, Patterson's Curse, and stinkwort along the Murray River. Flooding probably assisted the transport of seeds.

Animals With the co-operation of the Lands Department, control measures were carried out in a number of districts, particularly in young plantations, to reduce damage by vermin. Foxes are prevalent in Sherbrooke Forest and deaths amongst native animals are causing concern.

39 EDUCATION and RESEARCH Education School of Forestry, Creswick Education Twenty-six students were in residence during the 1973 academic year. The Diploma of the School of Forestry, Creswick, was awarded to eight students who successfully completed their final year. Ten scholarships for entry to the three-year Diploma course were awarded in February, 1974. A new syllabus of studies in forest zoology was introduced in 1974, for which visiting staff from the State College of Victoria at Ballarat are providing lectures and practical instruction. Lectures in forest engineer­ ing for second and third year students are now provided by a visiting lecturer from the Ballarat Institute of Advanced Education.

University of Melbourne As at the close of the year, twenty-six foresters were taking courses, a total of twenty-two in the fourth and fifth years of the Bachelor of Science in Forestry degree course, three for the degree of Master of Science in Forestry, and one for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. Messrs. R. G. Campbell and D. W. Flinn, after completing studies for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy, have returned to duty with the Department. Foresters completing studies during the year were- Mr. E. A. Chesterfield-Bachelor of Science in Forestry with Honours. Messrs. P. G. Baulch, S. P. Dwyer, J. D. Morris, D. J. O'Bryan, R. Penny, C. H. Reynolds, T. W. Ritchie and R. D. Safstrom­ Bachelor of Science in Forestry. Messrs. N. B. Milne and A. B. Murnane, cadet surveyors, completed their studies for the degree of Bachelor of Surveying and commenced duty with the Department.

Monash University Mr. C. J. Ashe is continuing his studies towards the degree of Bachelor of Science.

Overseas and other studies Mr. H. W. Bond is studying at the University of Utah for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. His project is concerned with the nutrient balance of watersheds as it relates to ecological changes. Mr. J. G. Edgar continued studies of multi-resource planning models at the University of Michigan. Mr. R. M. You I completed his studies for the Degree of Master of Science in Ecology at the University of Aberdeen.

Head Office library The library serves the staff of the Commission in Head Office and in Divisional and District Offices. Bookstock at 30th June, 1974 comprised- Books 2,600 Technical Reoorts 9,300 Periodica I Titles 255 Publications added to the library during the year totalled 1,200 and subscriptions were made to 20 new periodicals. Loans to staff during the year numbered 8,546. In addition 2,820 periodicals were circulated to country offices and 60 publications were lent to other libraries. Publications borrowed from other libraries for the use of the Commission staff totalled 304.

40 Research

Silviculture Eucalypt outplants have shown marked responses to fertilizers contain- Research ing both nitrogen and phosphorus applied at the time of planting. These studies have been made with E. obliqua in the Wombat forest and the ash species at Powel Itown. The poor growth of douglas fir seedli ngs at Narbethong was also found to be caused by deficiencies in nitrogen and phosphorus. Studies of the aerial application of superphosphate to phosphate­ deficient radiata pine at Scarsdale have shown a profitable growth response to 5 cwt per acre, even in stands of over 20 years of age. On harsh denuded sites on the Toorongo Plateau, E. nitens and E. delegatensis have been successfully established by use of furrowing or ploughing as a site preparation procedure and fertilizer. E. regnans and E. globulus were also tried, but could not survive the harsh environment. Nursery studies to improve soil structure, moisture retention and long term productivity of pine seedlings were undertaken at the Benalla Regional Nursery. Techniques to improve the physiological condition of pine seedlings arriving at the planting site were investigated. The effect of weed control on early growth of planted Pinus radiata was examined, and several herbicides screened for use in plantations of this species. The concentration of one such herbicide, picloram, in run-off water following soil application at Scarsdale has been regularly monitored. Comprehensive studies have commenced to compare the productivity of first and subsequent rotations of Pinus radiata on representative sites at Rennick and Myrtleford. The productivity of young intensively managed eucalypt forests is being studied in various areas of the State. At Kyabram and Swan Hill these studies include the use of irrigation water and sewerage effluent respectively.

Regeneration of alpine ash forests cut over for forest products is achieved with the aid of fire and artificial seeding. The method is based on the natural ecology of this forest type.

41 Genetics Research Remeasurements, and analyses, of two large P. radiata progeny trials were undertaken. Several outstanding young trees were selected for use in second generation breeding. New provenance trials with P. radiata, Pseudotsuga menziesii, and Pinus contorta were established. Existing provenance trials with E. nitens at Powelltown and Errinundra were remeasured at age 2 years for analysis of variability in growth rate and foliage characteristics. Special seed collections of E. nitens and E. obliqua (Otway messmate form) were made in order to study natural variation and to establish seed stands.

Forest Management Preliminary costing studies of various environmental care strategies for the harvesting and regeneration of ash forests were commenced. Adaptations of the STANDSIM computer program to predict growth response of forests of E. sieberi and P. radiata were continued. A start was made on the development of models to predict future consumption and supply of wood products in order to improve the base for management decisions. Models were developed for describing the distribution of aerially applied granulated superphosphate and prescrip­ tions were prepared for operational use.

Hydrology Equipment has been installed on the first catchment of a multiple­ catchment project to investigate the effect of pine plantation clearing operations upon storm run-off in north-east Victoria. The effects of forest operations on water quality in a number of areas has been analysed by computer from a large store of data collected over a period of years.

Pathology Field, laboratory and glasshouse studies on the ecology of Phytophthora cinnamomi were continued, with emphasis on studies of population density of the fungus in relation to site conditions. Large-scale freld trials with a number of die-back tolerant eucalypts were commenced. Studies of the effects of P. cinnamomi on the growth rates of various eucalypts continued. A new poplar rust, Melampsora larici-populina was found in Victoria. It is more damaging than M. medusae (recorded for the frrst time in 1972), and is now widespread throughout Victoria. Assistance has been given in the development of procedures to overcome this disease.

Entomology Studies of the effects of aerial spraying for phasmatid control on non­ target insects have shown that their populations are reduced only along roadsides or gaps in the eucalypt canopy. Eight weeks after spraying the populations had returned to their previous levels. A survey of insect populations inhabiting radiata pine plantations in north eastern Victoria has shown that the diversity and numbers of Coleootera (beetles) and Hemiptera (bugs and leaf-hoppers) were not less than in adjacent mixed eucalypt forest.

Ecology A preliminary ecological study in Boola State forest has indicated the oresence of at least 14 indigenous and 4 introduced species of mammals iri intensively manaqed areas. It appears that most mammal species have not been greatly affected by the scale of operations in this area. A study of the flora and fauna of softwood plantations and adjoining eucalypt forest in north-east Victoria was continued. The habitat value of residual areas of native forest within and adjacent to plantations is also under study. 42 Biological Survey The Sirex Wood Wasp Surveys to determine the extent of infestation throughout Victoria were Research continued during the year. However, control measures of a search and destroy nature have been now almost completely replaced by methods of biological control. These consist of breeding insect parasites at insectaries in Melbourne and Traralgon and liberation of parasitic nematodes and insect parasites in areas containing significant Sirex populations. The efficacy of these biological control agencies is being monitored.

The Phasmatid-Didymuria violescens Quantitative surveys of phasmatid populations in mountain forests were continued to define areas requiring control measures. The control program, based on aerial spraying with malathion, has been very successful. The area required to be sprayed during the year was only 800 acres.

Eucalypt crown die-back Surveys have been carried out throughout the coastal forests of east Gippsland to determine the extent of the disease, and techniques for assessing the susceptibility of a site to die-back are being developed.

Environmental Surveys Quantitative surveys of the flora at sites proposed for the Dartmouth, Tanjil and Mitchell River dams have been undertaken. These surveys form part of an inter-departmental program of environmental assess­ ment for major government construction programs.

Studies are in progress on the environmental effects of important forest management procedures. Substantial progress has been made in assessing the environmental effects of establishing pine plantations and intensive management of hardwood forests.

The Deer Advisory Council of Victoria, in conjunction with the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife and the Forests Commission, has established a small herd of fallow deer in the Koetong Plantation in north-eastern Victoria. The objective is to investigate the potential of plantations as habitat for deer management.

43 Publications Publications The following were published during the year-

Scientific Papers- ,, Die-back Tolerance of Eucalyptus Species in Relation to Fertilization and Soil Populations of Phytophthora cinnamomi ", by G. C. Marks. Presented to 45th Congress ANZAAS, Perth, August 1973. " Detection of Phytophtho ra cinnamomi in Soils", by G. C. Marks and F. Y. Kassaby. Aust. For. 36: 198-203, 1974. "Pathogenicity of Pythium and Phytophthora spp. to Eucalyptus spp.", by G. C. Marks and F. Y. Kassaby. Proc. Aust. Plant Pathology Soc. Nat. Conf. Vol. 3: (l) 2, 1974. " Wood Characteristics of Sexua Ily and Vegetatively Reproduced Pi nus radiata ", by J. W . P. Nicholls, A. G. Brown and L. A. Pederick. Aust. J. Bot. 22: 19-27, 1974. " Management and Protection of Forested Catchments in Victoria ", by R. J. Grose. Presented to the 9th Assembly of Australian Freshwater Fishermen at Providence Portal, Lake Eucembene, March 1974. "Use of High Intensity Fire in Forest Management", by R. J. Grose. Presented to the Fi re Ecology Symposium at Monash University, March 1974. "Forestry and the National Economy", by R. J. Grose. Presented to the Institute of Wood Science (Australian Branch), Melbourne, June 1974. "The Problem of Tourism Definition ", by S. W. Calder. Presented at the Tourism Research Seminar, Melbourne, August 1973. " Application of ERTS-1 Imagery to the Assessment and Management of Forest Resources ", by R. B. Smith. Presented at the Informal Symposium on ERTS-1, Canberra, December 1973. " Planning for Leisure in a Modern Community", by P. J . Greig. Presented to the South Australian Education Department and Australia Council for Health, Physical Education and Recreation (S .A. Division), Murray Park College, November, 1973, and to the "Leisure-A New Perspective" Conference, Canberra, April 1974.

The skills of the ecologist, architect and engineer are blended to establish a good walking track within a Forest Park.

44 11 Air Attack on Bushflres-Australia, Canada and the United States of Publications 11 America 1 by C. H. Wood. Presented to the Fourth Australian National Conference on Fire, Sydney, August 1973.

11 11 Firebombing-Development and Current Status 1 by C. H. Wood. Presented to the 14th Agricultural Aviation Symposium, Surfer's Para­ dise, November 1973.

11 11 Forest Fuel Reduction-an Air Craft Down Under 1 by C. H. Wood. Presented to the Third International Aerospace Symposium, /1 Special 11 Aviation Services to Conservation of the Environment 1 Vancouver, British Columbia, August 1973. 11 The effects of Fire on Fauna-A Review", by A. Heislers. Presented to the ANZAAS Conference, Perth, August 1973.

Miscellaneous Publications- ,, Research Activity 72." A summary of research findings for 1972, edited by J. E. Opie. "A History of the Mount Buffalo Fire 14th December-26th December 1972 ", by B. D. Dexter, A. Heislers and T. Sloan, 1973. "Safety and Tree Felling", by L. B. Simpfendorfer. Presented to Stihl Safety Exposition, Melbourne, March 1974. Reprinted Australian Forestry Industries Journal, May 1974, and Australian Safety Newsr May 1974.

Booklets- " The Grampians State Forest." "Forestry in Victoria." (Revised Reprint.) 11 The Koetong Plantation, Tallangatta Forest District." "Mt. Cole State Forest." "Multiple-Use Management, Creswick State Forest." " Planting Radiata Pine." (Amended Reprint.) "Wail/Mildura Tree List." (Reprint.) "Macedon/Creswick Tree List." (Reprint.) "Farm Forestry." (Reprint.)

Pamphlets- " Safe Hand ling of Pesticides." " Delatite Arm Camping Area 1973." " Forests are for Everyone." "Tree Planting Hints." (Reprint.) "Koetong Plantation' Pines' Tour." "Guidelines for Camping in the Grampians State Forest." 11 Information Sheet No. l Victorian Timbers and their Uses." (Reprint.) 11 Information Sheet No. 3 Principal Commercial Timbers of Victoria." (Reprint.) " Information Sheet No. 5 Forests and their Importance to Water Supplies." {Reprint.) "Information Sheet No. 6 Tall Trees." (Reprint.) " Questions and Answers on Fire Regulations." {Reprint.) "Gateway to a Man's Career." (Reprint.) 11 Reforestation-Strzelecki Ranges-Mirboo Forest District." 11 The William Ricketts Sanctuary at Mt. Dandenong." {Reprint.) "School of Forestry, Creswick, Prerequisite Courses for Intending Students." 11 Trees for Special Purposes." 11 Rushworth State Forest." " Barmah State Forest." 11 Lal Lal Blast Furnace." " Shelley Forest Camp." " Lakes Entrance Forest Drives." 45 Publications "Mt. Disappointment Forest Drives." "The Kulkyne State Forest." "The Grampians State Forest-Stawell Forest District." "Trees on the Farm." (Reprint.) 11 Forest Features of the Warby Range." (Reprint.)

Conferences

Conferences The Chairman, Dr. F. R. Moulds, Mr. A. J. Threader, Commissioner1 Mr. J. H. Cosstick, Commissioner, Dr. R. J. Grose, Chief, Division of Forest Management, Mr. S. C. Butler, Chief, Division of Forest Operations, Mr.

D. W. M. Paine1 Forest Resources Officer, Mr. L. B. Williams, 0. in C. Working Plans Branch, Mr. A .W. Webb, Sales and Marketing Officer, and Mr. J. P. Wright, Forester, attended the FORWOOD Conference in Canberra in April, 1974. Dr. F. R. Moulds attended meetings of the Standing Committee of the Australian Forestry Council in Launceston, Melbourne and Canberra in August and November, 1973 and February, 1974, and Mr. J. H. Cosstick

attended the meeting of the Committee at Lae, P. & N.G. in April 1 1974. Dr. F. R. Moulds attended the meeting of the National Sirex Fund Committee in Melbourne in March, 1974, and meetings of the Joint Committee on Forest Industries in Canberra and Sydney in September, 1973, March, 1974 and May, 1974. Mr. J. H. Cosstick, Dr. R. J. Grose and Mr. G. Griffin, Chief, Division of Economics and Marketing, attended the 29th Conference of the Aus­ tralian Pulp and Paper Industries Technical Association in Melbourne in March, 1974. Mr. D. J. Lenne, Secretary, and Mr. J. A. Nathan, Training and Methods

Officer1 attended the Annual Conference of the Australian Regional Groups of the Royal Institute of Public Administration in Canberra in November, 1973.

Mr. W. D. J. Gray1 Chief Finance Officer1 attended the Australian Society of Accountants National Convention in Canberra in March, 1974. Mr. A. Hodgson, 0. in C. Forest Environment and Recreation Branch, and Mr. P. J. Greig, Forester, attended the "Leisure-A New Perspec­ 11 tive Conference in Canberra in April 1 1974.

Dr. G. C. Marks1 Research Scientist1 and Mr. A. Heislers1 Assistant District

Forester, attended the 44th ANZAAS Congress in Perth in August1 1973 and Dr. G. C. Marks and Mr. F. Y. Kassaby, Forest Pathologist, attended the 3rd Australian Plant Pathology Society Meeting in Sydney in May, 1974. Mr. L. B. Simpfendorfer, Utilization Officer, and Mr. J. Paxton, Explosives and Safety Officer, attended a Victorian Industrial Safety Convention at Monash University in August, 1973.

Mr. S. W. Calder1 Recreational Forestry Officer, attended a Tourism Research Seminar in Melbourne in August, 1973, and a Symposium on 11 Man and Landscape in Australia 11 in Canberra in May-June, 1974.

Mr. W. A. C. Clifford, Forest Products Officer1 attended meetings of the Wood Preservation Committee in Sydney in December, 1973, and in Brisbane in May, 1974.

Mr. C. H. Wood1 Forestry Protection Officer1 attended the Fourth Aus­

tralian National Conference on Fire in Sydney in August1 1973 and the Fourteenth Agricultural Aviation Symposium at Surfer1 s Paradise in November, 1973. Miss M. Van Baer, Librarian, attended the First Conference of the Special Libraries Section of the Library Association of Australia in Canberra in May, 1974.

46 ADMINISTRATION

Personnel

Staff The Commission records its appreciation of the outstanding services of Personnel Mr. A. H. A. Beetham, Divisional Forester, who retired after 45 years service; Mr. H. R. Parke, Divisional Forester, after 42 years service; Mr. A. Weetman, Forest Economist, after 45 years service; Messrs. F. J. Halloran and J. A. lncoll, District Foresters, after 45 years service and f't/1r. F. J. Smith, District Forester, after 46 years service, and the loyal and valued services rendered by the following officers-Messrs. G. R. Barker, H. F. Kelly, J. C. H. Mcfadyen, D. J. O'Connor, W. J. Read, A. H. Webb and Mrs. N. M. Tingate. It is with regret that the Commission records the death of Mr. E. W. Hume. The following senior appointments were made during the year- Mr. S. F. Duncan-to Officer in Charge, General Operations (replacing Mr. S. C. Butler). Mr. K. G. Harrop-to Divisional Forester (replacing Mr. A. H. A. Beetham). Mr. E. J. Slattery-to Personnel Officer (replacing Mr. P. J. McCormack). The following graduates from the School of Forestry, Creswick, were appointed to the Professional Division of the Public Service- Messrs. R. P. Brinkman, R. T. Caddell, N. M. Crabtree, P. J. Evans, P. W. Farrell, K. W. King, E. Waller and B. C. Young. Mr. I. R. Kennedy, Forester, Division of Economics and Marketing, com­ pleted the Degree of Bachelor of Commerce at Melbourne University, under a part-time Public Service Free Place, during the 1973 academic year. Statement of Personnel as at 30th June, 1974-

Administra.. Technical Division tive Professional and General Temporary Casual Totals .

Central Administration- Administration .. .. 56 .. 28 9 .. 93 Forest Management .. 12 51 10 5 9 87 Forest Operations .. 5 14 32 II 5 67 Economics and Marketing 5 8 3 2 3 21 Forest Protection .. I 9 IS 5 4 34 Forestry Education and Research .. .. 3 32 7 6 25 73 Field Administration- Central .. .. I 19 32 5 116 173 Eastern .. .. I 20 27 8 107 163 Northern .. .. 2 10 31 5 62 110 North-Eastern .. .. 4 24 37 6 165 236 Southern .. 2 20 23 5 115 165 South·Western .. .. I 22 48 7 174 252 Western .. .. I 19 28 4 151 203 Leave Without Pay .. .. I ...... J University ...... 16 I . . .. 17 Totals .. .. 94 265 322 78 936 1,695 I

Industrial No industrial disputes have occurred during the year. Several minor complaints received from Unions were settled by negotiation.

47 Personnel The National Wage case judgment together with increases granted during the year by the Commonwealth Conciliation and Arbitration Commission, as a result of claims lodged by Unions, resulted in a sub­ stantial increase in total wages.

Number of Employees The number of employees on strength (apart from Rural Relief and Drought Relief employees) has ranged from a minimum of 711 to a maximum of 1, 133, varying with seasonal requirements.

Relief Works Rural Relief Unemployment and Drought Relief schemes ceased on 9th October, 1973. The 257 men employed at that date were either absorbed into the normal work force or retrenched.

Workers Compensation The number of workers compensation claims decreased from 489 in 1972/73 to 387 lost time accidents in 1973/74.

Staff Training Mr. R. A. Saunders, Accountant, attended Advanced Course No. 49 at the Australian Administrative Staff College, Mt. Eliza, from 15/3/74 to 11/5/74. Attendance at Public Service Board courses was as follows-

I Course Administrative Professional Total

Orientation ...... 10 .. 10 Management ...... 2 2

A number of departmental training courses were conducted during the year. Training was organized and provided for officers required to take charge of fire fighting operations. In addition, training in ftre control was provided for exempt employees in 43 forest districts. Training was organized and provided for plant repair personnel and exempt employees using explosives. The Safety Committee was active in providing training for field personnel on safety procedures in a variety of forestry operations. During the year twenty-two officers attended external training courses on a variety of administrative and specialized subjects. For the 1974 academic year twenty-one officers were granted part-time study leave under the Public Service (Public Service Board) Regulations to pursue tertiary qualifications.

Methods

Methods The Methods Review Committee met on eight occasions during the year. A continuous survey of forms and methods associated with their use is being maintained. The Office Machine Replacement Program continues to operate in con­ junction with a review of methods and procedures associated with the use of the machines. All districts are now equipped with electric add listers and an increasing number of districts are being supplied with electronic calculators.

48 Stores Poor availability of certain items caused some delays in purchasing. Stores However all general stores were maintained at a working minimum. The book value of stock on hand at the 30th June 1973 and 1974 respectively was as follows-

30th June, 1973 30th June, 1974 ~~ Variation

$ $ Central Store .. 80,191 75,380 - 5·9

Field Stores .. 76,082 72,080 - 5·2

156,273 147,460

Th2 credit balance of the Forests Stores Suspense "Stores" Account as at the 30th June 1974 was $142,567 compared with $160,971 as at the 30th June 1973. The salvage and disposals program for the year realized the following amounts through sales- F.S.S. A/C Materials Total $1,416 $6,354 $7,770

Finance

Expenditure on State Forests increased in the financial year 1973/74 Finance compared with 1972/73. Details are shown in the following table-

------·----~ -----

1972-73 1973-74 Increase

$ $ $ i Vote Appropriations .. I 5,407,737 5,972, 112 564,375

Forestry Fund 3,293,307 3,848,613 555,306 Works and Services- Native Forests and pre-Commonwealth Agreement Softwood Plantations .. 2,558,638 2,682,947 124,309 I Commonwealth Agreement Softwood ' Plantations 1,691,062 1,975,303 284,241

12,950,744 14,478,975 1,528,231 ------· The increase of $564,375 in expenditure charged to Vote Appropriations was due mainly to increases in salary costs and to consequent increased expenditure on Pay Roll Tax. Expenditure from Forestry Fund and Works and Services Account on native forests and pre-Commonwealth Agreement softwoods increased by $679,615 or 11 · 6 per cent. It should be noted that portion of the increase ($145,000) was a special allocation by the Treasury to meet foe suppression costs incurred during the 1973/74 summer, and that a further portion ($37,250) was made available for purchases of land in the Dandenongs for public purposes. Expenditure on Commonwealth Agreement plantations increased by $284,241 or 16 · 8 per cent; total planting prescribed for the first three years of the Agreement (34,740 acres) having been achieved. The overall total increase in expenditure on Works and Services was generally sufficient to meet rising costs during 1973 74. Revenue reached a level of $8,775,096, an increase of $1,346,611 or 18 · l per cent. The additional revenue was due primarily to an increase in royalty rates which became effective from l st September, 1973. The increase in revenue would have been higher but for a slight decline in production of forest produce in 1973/74.

49 8203/74.-4 Finance The main components of revenue are set out in the following table-

- 1972-73 1973-74 Increase

$ $ $ Rents ...... 160,687 188,427 27,740 Royalties ...... 6,209,156 7,556,192 1,347,036 Sale of Forest Produce .. .. 894,469 819,071 75,398 (-) Other ...... 164,173 211,406 47,233 7,428,485 8,775,096 1,346,611

An analysis of expenditure on State forests from 1969 /70 to 1973/74 and proposed disbursements for 1974/75 (Append!x XV}, is set out below-

1974-75 1969-70 1970-71 1971-72 1972-73 1973-74 $000's $000's $000's $000's $000's $000's % of a Total % of Total ~,~of Total % of Total % of Total %of Total (Proposed)

ADMINISTRATION Salaries, Overheads and other expenses 3,111 3,602 4,020 4,563 5,181 5,776 32·2 33·9 35·0 35·2 35·8 35·0

WORKS Native Forests and Pre Commonwealth Agree· ment Softwood Planta- tions Supervision and Maintenance (Forestry Fund) 2,533 2,778 2,972 3,293 3,849 4,601 26·2 26·2 25·8 25·4 26·6 27·9 Developmental Works .. 1,873 1,904 1,971 2,559 2,683 3,257 19·4 17·9 17· I 19·8 18·5 19·7 Utilization of Forest Produce .. 648 718 885 845 791 825 6·7 6·8 7·7 6·5 5·5 5·0 5,054 5,-400 5,828 6,697 7,323 8,683 52·3 50·9 50·6 51·7 50·6 52·6 Commonwealth Agreem!!nt Softwood Plantations •. 1,492 1,612 1,651 1,691 1,975 2,043 15·5 15·2 14·4 13 ·I 13·6 12·4 Totals .. 9,657 10,614 11,499 12,951 14,479 16,502 100·0 100·0 100·0 100·0 100·0 100·0

50 APPENDIX I.

STATEMENT OF OUTPUT OF PRODUCE FROM STATE FORESTS 1973-74. (with comparative figures for 1972-73).

1972-73. 1973-74. 408,186,452 Sawlogs, hardwood .. . . 403,470,889 super. feet H.L.V. 61,389,081 Sawlogs, softwood 59,973,346 super. feet H.L.V. 247,264 Veneer logs, hardwood 490,762 super. feet H.L.V. 2,581,398 Veneer logs, softwood 2,630, I 86 super. feet H.L.V.

Fencing Timbers- 993,769 Posts, strainers and stays, hardwood 919,602 number 594,543 Posts, strainers and stays, softwood 552,562 number 16,312 Droppers, pickE.ts, palings 9,206 number 9,493 Rails 20,596 number

Heavy Timbers- 224,895 Beams and bridge timbers 234,150 super. feet 309,761 Sleepers 198,691 number 70,/62 Piles 35,040 lineal feet

Poles and Spars- 42/,691 Transmission poles, hardwood 591,033 lineal feet 7,787 Transmission poles, softwood 2,697 lineal feet 581,348 Miscellaneous poles, hardwood 805,035 Ii neal feet 212. 158 Miscellaneous poles, softwood 212,931 lineal feet

Mining Timbers­ 30,641 Round .. 26,298 lineal feet 77,988 Split 59,625 super. feet

Pulpwood 7,285,700 For paper, hardwood 7,401,399 cubic feet / ,251 ,900 For paper, softwood 818,485 cubic feet /,598,000 For particleboard, softwood 2,088,245 cubic feet 49,468 For hardboard, hardwood 37,204 tons

Firewood- 6,0/ 3,393 Stacked and longwood 5,276,700 cubic feet 899 Milled wood 506 tons

Miscellaneous Timbers­ 201 ,477 Stakes and props 130,855 number I /,I 02 Chopping blocks 11,936 number 878 House stumps 788 number 15,506 Sleeper off-cuts .. 28,169 number 5,052 Bed logs 6,631 number

Minor Produce­ / / ,284 Christmas trees .. 10,754 number 72,360 Eucalyptus oil 68,631 lbs. 8 Tanbark I ton 302 Charcoal 968 tons 396,078 Sand, gravel, loam, soil, &c. 296, 185 cubic yards 2,560 Moss 2,530 bags

51 APPENDIX II.

CAUSES OF FIRES.

------~ ---- Percentage of Total I Areas of State Forest or Cause-Known or Suspected Number of Outbreaks Outbreaks National Parks Burned

Acres Grazing interests ...... Lan downers or householders ...... 37 17·54 5,496 De liberate lighting ...... 54 25·59 27,284

Spo rtsmen, campers, tourists ...... 23 10·90 53 Lie en sees and forest workers ...... 11 5·21 6,172

Sm okers ...... 6 2·84 7

Lig htning ...... 24 11 ·38 3,031 Tract ors, cars, trucks, stationary engines, &c. .. 12 5·69 46

Ch ildren ...... 8 3.79 5 Saw mills ...... 6 2·84 . .

Mis cellaneous known causes ...... 15 ' 7· 11 2,608 Un known origin ...... 15 7· 11 304 Totals ...... 211 100·00 45,006

AP PEN DIX Ill.

SUMMARY OF FIRES AND AREAS BURNED.

Area Burned Number of Fires within Fire Protected Areas

Affecting State Forest and Number National Parks of Fires Total Attended Originated Number D'IVISIO ---- Outside -- in and of Fires Nationa1 Total Total Fire Attended State Forest Parks Originated in- confined to Protected Private Area Property Private State National Property Forest Parks , __ ------

Acres Acres Acres Central .. 66 90 156 7 6 7 7 27 2 29 Eastern . . 35,007 .. 35,007 . . 30 . . 7 37 37 Northern . . 14 . . 14 . . 11 .. 2 13 12 25

North-Ea~tern 71 .. 71 . . 16 . . 12 28 29

Southern .. 611 5,000 5,611 I 15 I 4 21 22

South-Western 670 . . 670 6 22 .. 16 44 44 Western . . 3,476 I 3,477 .. 14 I 8 23 2 25

--- i Totals .. 39,915 5,091 45,006 14 114 9 I 56 193 18 211 I I I ------52 APPENDIX IV.

TYPE OF AREA BURNED IN STATE FOREST AND NATIONAL PARKS.

Division Merchantable Re-growth Non~Commercial Total

I : Acres Acres Acres Acres Central ...... 35 . . 121 156 Eastern ...... 7,151 7,800 20,056 35,007 Northern ...... 6 2 6 14 North-Eastern ...... 7 . . 64 71 Southern ...... 190 .. 5,421 5,611 South-Western ...... 14 I 655 670 Western ...... 311 90 3,076 3,477 Totals ...... 7,714 7,893 29,399 45,006 i . I Percentage of Total Area .. 17· 14 17·54 65·32 100·00 I i ·····~------

APPENDIX V.

CLASSIFICATION OF FIRE ACREAGES IN STATE FOREST AND NATIONAL PARKS.

Number of Fires

--······· I Division 0-10 11-100 101-500 501-1,000 1,001-10.000 10,000 + Total Number Acres Acres Acres I Acres Acres Acres of Fires I

Central . . . . 24 5 . . I ...... 29 Eastern . . .. 16 7 6 3 4 I 37 Northern . . . . 21 3 I ...... 25 North-Eastern . . 27 2 ...... 29 Southern . . . . 14 5 2 .. I . . 22 South-Western . . 39 3 2 ...... 44 Western . . . . 20 I I 3 .. I . . 25 Totals .. . . 161 26 14 3 6 I 211 Percentage of Total Fires .. 76·31 12·32 6·64 I ·42 2·84 0·47 100·00

APPENDIX VI.

MONTHLY OUTBREAKS OF FIRE.

Number of Fires Total Division I Number of Fires July Aug. I Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. Feb. March April May I June

Central 4 5 7 12 .. 29 Eastern 21 4 3 7 I 37 Northern 2 10 7 2 4 25 I I North-Eastern .. 3 8 3 14 . ' I 29 Southern 4 7 3 2 5 22 South-Western .. 5 3 10 II 8 7 44 Western 3 6 9 6 25 Totals 25 9 12 48 39 27 so Percentages 0·47 .. ii I ·85 4·26 5·69 18·48 12·80 ·70 .. I I I

53 APPENDIX VII.

PROTECTION WORKS-SUMMARY. Firebreaks, &c.- Length of firebreaks constructed .. 53·96 miles Length of firebreaks maintained 865·95 miles Length of firelines constructed 54·75 miles Length of firelines maintained 530· 19 miles Area of fuel reduction burning 90,901 acres

Helipads­ Constructed 2 Maintained 109 Total in use 204

Water Conservation­ Dams- More than 400 cubic yards capacity­ Constructed 21 Maintained 706

Less than 400 cubic yards capacity­ Constructed 10 Maintained 631 Weirs and tanks constructed Nil Weirs and tanks maintained 89

Towers and look-out cabins­ Towers in use .. 95

Dugouts- Constructed by Commission Nil Maintained by Commission 37 Constructed by other interests Maintained by other interests 44

54 APPENDIX VIII.

CONTRACTS. Statement of contracts under seal entered into during the year ended 30th June, 1974.

Name of Contractor Work or Service Forest District Amount

$

L. B. Davern and A. F. Clearing 385 acres Macedon 21,175.00 Ryan G. W. and E. J. Turner Erection of Tourist Lookout-Lawrence T al Iangatta 5,237.00 Scenic Reserve I. R. and L. G. Naden­ Clearing 400 acres Neerim 28,000.00 bousch I. R. and L. G. Naden­ Falling 215 acres 7,740.00 } Marysville bousch Clearing 310 acres 23,250.00 A. M. and E. G. Hedger Clearing 353 acres Niagaroon 15,885.00 E. M. Daniel, D. J. Day Clearing 330 acres E. Otways 16, 170.00 and G. Stevenson E. S. Golding .. Clearing 570 acres Marysville 27,360.00 F. C. Creasey Clearing 100 acres Stawell 2,500.00 A. D. Twigg and Sons Clearing 450 acres Toolangi 18,675 .00 R. N. and J. E. Greenbank Clearing 110 acres Creswick 4,180.00 Pty. Ltd. A. C. P. and N. H. Erection District Forester's Residence Neerim South 24,262.00 Marshall R. F. Stewart .. Construction of District Office .. Macedon 35,000.00 A. T. Coker and Sons .. Ploughing 590 acres Daylesford 2,832.00 M. C. Kool Constructions Construction of Divisional Plant Repair Traralgon 64,628.87 Pty. Ltd. Workshop R. J. and A. F. Kettle .. Ploughing 307 acres E. Otways 2,302.00 Rickey Bros., Pty. Ltd. Clearing 200 acres Creswick 8,900.00 F. E. and B. Johnson and Clearing 85 acres Casterton 2, 125 .00 I. J. Hall Condon Bros. Pty. Ltd ... 3,000 yds. x 2" and 1,500 yds. x I Rock Gellibrand 12,600.00 Ferguson Bros. Ploughing 820 acres Heywood 6,560.00 C. J. McKinnon Clearing 370 acres Neerim 24,050.00 Ferguson Bros. Clearing 380 acres Rennick 6,460.00 John Pike Land Develop- Ploughing area not exceeding 600 acres .. Marysville 3,600.00 ment W. J. Bennett Ploughing 350 acres Macedon 2,275.00 Ferguson Bros. Clearing 170 acres Heywood 4,930.00 J.C. Taylor Constructions Additions to Administrative Centre and Mt. Buller 5,660.00 Pty. Ltd. Staff Quarters Caplehorn and Brereton Construction of fuel store and stand Broadford 4, 175.00 A. M. and E. G. Hedger Clearing 425 acres Niagaroon 23,375.00 D. J. Mayberry Felling and heaping 200 acres Heywood 5,600.00

APPENDIX IX.

WORKS AND SERVICES EXPENDITURE FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 1973-74. (Showing Comparative figures for 1972-73). -·-···-···-···--··---···-·· ------···-··-·-····-·--··----····----·-·····---··--··---·--···----- ·-·-·· 1973-74

Item Expenditure Authorized Under- 1972-73

Act No. 6325 Act No. 8471 I Total

$ $ $ $

Fi re Protection 107,540 467,051 574,591 878,735 General Forest Operations 135,641 535,245 670,886 531,885 Timber Extraction Roads 106,165 444,562 550,727 456,485 Plantations 717,213 1,835,727 2,552,940 2,131,921 Fixed Assets .. 20,849 117,656 138,505 101,807 Purchase of Land 5,091 50,061 55,152 28,167 Purchase of Plant and Machinery 1,503 82,742 84,245 27,317 Advances for Farm Forestry 4,089 27,115 31,204 93,383

1,098,091 3,560,159 4,658,250 4,249,700

Note.-The above figures for Plantations inc:lude expenditure on Plantations established under the Commonwealth Softwood Forestry Agreem~nt of $1,691,062 for 1972-73 and $1,975,303 for 1973-74. 55 APPENDIX X.

STATEMENT OF REVENUE AND APPROPRIATED EXPENDITURE FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 1973-74. (Showing comparative figures 1972-73.)

AMOUNT PAID INTO CONSOLIDATED REVENUE. APPROPRIATED EXPENDITURE. 1972-73. 1973-74. 1972-73. 1973-74. $ $ $ $ $ $ Treasury Account~ 3,887,452 Salaries {including Commissioners), and Payments in lieu of Long Service Leave 4,614,182 Consolidated Funds- 334,490 Overtime. Travelling and other General Expenses 236,262 160,687 Rents &c. 188,427 6,209,156 Royalties 7,556, 192 4,221,942 4,850,444 6.369,843 7,744,619 64,200 School of Forestry 20,863 7,100 foresters Quar(crs 7,100 894,469 of Forest Produce 819,071 10,000 Grant to Natural Resources Conservation League 164,173 211,406 146,582 Payroll Tax . . . . 19':l,850 12,250 Mountain Gallery-Kalorama .. 12,250 7,428,485 8,775,096 22,500 Contribution to National Sirex Fund 22,500 1,272,559 Balance-Excess of Appropriated Expenditure over Revenue l,045,629 15,000 Grant to Timber Promotion Committee 25,000 6,100 Survey Cadetships . . . . 2,514 47,034 Timber Promotion Committee-Contributions 46,612 340,766 330,689 845,029 Utilisation of Forest Produce 790,979 5,407,737 Total Votes .. 5,972,112 Appropriations- 3,293,307 Fund* (see Appendix XI) 3,848,613 Cl Cl'.) 8,701,044 9,820,725 8,701,044 Total Votes and Special Appropriations 9,820,725

APPENDIX XI.

FORESTRY FUND.

1972-73. 1973-74. $ $ $ 183,833 Brought forward 1st July 75,448 Add Intake for year Authorized by Act 6254 3, 184,922 Section 30 (2) 3,872,309 Section 63 (8) 3,872,309 3,368,755 Available Funds 3,947,757 Less Expenditure for year­ 2,682,052 Forests 2,991,292 61,857 Plantations 98,054 111,096 Nurseries 156,666 428,302 General 602,601 3,293,307 3.848,613 75,448 Balance carried forward 30th June 99,144 APPENDIX XII.

STATEMENT OF FORESTRY FUND EXPENDITURE 1973-74.

Item Amount

$

Forest Protection Works 477,773 Silvicultural Works 85,911 Maintenance of Roads 737,424 Plantations and Nurseries 144,328 Forest Recreation .. 162,318 Maintenance of Residences and other Buildings 76,207 Supervision (Salaries) 585,272 School of Forestry 74,998 Timber Promotion Committee-Contribution 46,612 District Administrative Expenses-Supervisions 410,317 -Other 218,267 General Administrative Expense 829, 186

Total 3,848,613

------·····--

APPENDIX XIII.

SUNDRY DEBTORS 30TH JUNE, 1974. $ Royalties- Licensed Hardwood Logs •. 141,990

Licensed Softwood and Departmental Hardwood and Softwood Logs 162,896

Rents, Fees, Miscellaneous Forest Produce 103,713

$408,599

Balance of Deferred Royalties at 30th June, 1974 which are by Agreement Due and Payable in 1974-75 $476,438

57 8203/74.-5 APPENDIX XIV.

ACT 6524-FOREST STORES SUSPENSE ACCOUNT 1973-74. (Showing Comparative Figures 1972-73.)

Fire Protection Prant Total Stores Drums Repairs co Plant Manufactured Articles. and Equipment.

Item --- 1972-73 1973-74 1972-73 1973-74 1972-73 1973-74 1972-73 1973-74 1972-73 1973-74 1972-73 1973-74

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Balances brought forward 1st July .. 200,540 231,378 I 13,488 160,972 5,914 Dr. 5,848 Dr. 96,569 78,619 1,650 3,345 5,253 Dr. 5,710 Dr. Add Credits- ...... 1,024,501 1,184,892 449,472 370,339 5,490 4,134 SOI ,644 764,289 9,579 5,298 58,316 40,832 Amounts Available ...... 1,225,041 1,416,270 562,960 531,311 424 Dr. 1,714 Dr. 598,213 842,908 I 1,229 8,643 53,063 35,122 Less Debits- ...... 993,663 1,326,028 401,988 388,744 5,424 3,473 519,594 861,220 7,884 7,067 58,773 65,524 Balances carried forward 30th June .. 231,378 90,242 160,972 142,567 5,848 Dr. 5,187 Dr. 78,619 18,312 Dr. 3,345 1,576 5,7/0Dr. 30,402 Dr. c.n 00

FORESTS PLANT AND MACHINERY FUND 1973-74. (Showing Comparative Figures 1972-73.)

1972-73. 1973-74.

$ $ Balances brought forward Ist July 563,434 560,235 Add Plant Hire Charges 310,760 489,392 Add Proceeds of Disposal .. 5/,101 243,015 Amounts Available 925,295 1,292,642 Less Expenditure 365,060 525,530

Balances carried forward 30th June 560,235 767,112 APPENDIX XV.

PROPOSED DISBURSEMENTS 1974-75.

Appropriations Forestry Fund Works and Services Total

Items Amount Amount Amount Amount Provided Provided Provided Provided

$'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 Forest Protection Works 589 589 1,132 642 1,721 1,231 Silvicultural Works 125 125 1,253 754 1,378 879 Construction and Maintenance of Roads 862 862 685 416 1,547 1,278 Establishment and Maintenance of Plantations and Nurseries 193 193 3,227 2,438 3,420 2,63! Forest Recreation 221 221 221 221 Construction, Purchase and Main- tenance of Residences and other Buildings 7 7 106 106 250 220 363 333 Purchase of Land 80 35 80 35 Purchase of Plant and Machinery 86 86 155 152 241 238 Advances for Farm Forestry 90 80 90 80 Utilization Works- Departmental 850 825 850 825 Other 67 67 67 67 Salaries 5,333 4,991 714 714 328 328 6,375 6,033 Operating and Other Expenses 675 778 l,638 1,638 235 235 2,548 2,651 Totals 6,865 6,601 4,601 4,601 7,435 5,300 !8,90! 16,502

ESTIMATED RECEIPTS 1974-75. $'000 Grazing, Occupation, Royalties, &c. 8,806 Sale of Departmentally Produced Saw Logs, Firewood, Pulpwood, Poles, &c ... 840 Miscellaneous Collections 214 Total 9,860

Bv Authority: C. H. R1xoN, Government Printr.r. Melbourne,

59 APPENDIX XVI

DIVISIONAL OFFICE PHONE ••- cv r ~ BAIANSDAl £ St•I• Publ1t Df11ces 32 Poke Suee.t 5?431U MILD URA v c T 0 R A BALLARAT M I C Buildings. 1l lydl•1d Stro•t South 311J71 BENDIGO Stal Public O!lteu . Ha1giuaves Street 439899 l HlA £SVILL£ Maraondah H1gt .. ay 624900 HORSHAM SIJte Puhl1t Otfteu. 11 Mrlad1lan S1reet 8231 l I TAARALGD"J A 'I Z. Bank Butlrlmg 38 Fran l1n Stieet 743353 WANGARATTA Tarn Cou11 .. rurd Sueet 215071 0 MIL ES 32 1; 2,000,000 64 96 ------=r="----~~------..-----..-:======~ PHONE • 30 60 90 rn OM EIB ES DISTRICT OFFICE BALlAAAT Ml C Bu1ld111gs, 11 L1•d1a1d S1ree1 So"l~ 3! 1300 BEAUFORT 6 la.wenca SHeel 113 LEGEND B££Cll\'IORTH ford S11ee1 281501 BENALLA 55 Wedge Street 622291 FOREST PARKS AND OTHER SPECIAL RESERVES BENDIGO State Public Offtces Haro"ove• Streel 139899 RESERVED FOREST BRIGHT Bakers Gult1 Road 551577 BROAOFORO 37 H1Ql1 Sll•UI 21 PROTECTED FOREST BRUT HEN I 0 Church Strnel mm CANN RIVER P11nces H1ghw•v 51 NA Tl ON AL PARKS - CAS EATON 52 Jad«M S1rect 115 CASTLg,A1 Nf 7211 ID . FOREST DIVISIONAL HEAOOUAR TERS Kenne~v S11eet 0 COHU A C"'' Centre K111g Edward Street S61l66 FOREST DISTRICT HEADQUARTERS CORRYONG Ja1 d1nr St· eel 761388 • CRESWICK 0>yles1ord Road 452200 HIGHWAYS OAYltSFORO Camp S11ee1 482211 AS AT 30-6-1974 ERICA School Road 6:13204 • f ORREST Gram St1ea1 Bo•wun Oow111 )6621).1 GHLIBRANO Chafluv~ Cr el Rn•O :!58201 HEATHCllH 13 C:aniJl Street 52 HEVFIELO B P•aison Stteel 482355 HEYWOOD 11 Murr.iv Sti.e1 45 AlLISTA The P.mh Roart 7501226 LAHA \011 Yonus Fnrflsl P 11 821375 MACEDON M.1rn1lon Nurse1v. N"""'V Ru•rl 26H07 SOt1111 AfFR. ~ 52 Mclra• S1rne1 471081 MANSflflO 43 llu111er Stt et 147 MARYBOHOLGH $hrt< Olf1ces. Neill S!le•I 611055 MARYSVllll lye I S11ee 1 mm WALES Ml LOURA Cr~rc Bu lrt1nlJ~ Or.u~ II A 11111? 23om i1RBUO NOHrH 31 8;iro1111 Re 111 681303 \IYRT\ HORD 33 Sn111! Sue•t 521911 ., ~ATHALlt. 26 H•icottrt St1eet 662702 I NEERIM SOUTH Main Road 61401 YARRAWONGA ,,QWA NUWA forosl Hoat1 557233 ORBOSI Bonnda· v Road 113 POWELL TOWN Main Road 667103 ~ '!"·, JUN ICK P11ntes Highway Mt GamlJ1er 255866 . ST ARNAUD Coull tlouse. N piur l!Oet ~51700 Slate f'uhl" Oll1ce1 . Wetsrurrt St1ee1 212478 WANG. TTA SHEPPARrDN 23 Pdl·1c~ S11eu1 581588 SHEPPARTON STAWHL 0 SWlflS CRHK M1 M1ll.t11 A>cnue 29 TAGGfRn Wylie ~11e~t mm TALLA~GATT .~ 34 Tuwong S11ec1 -14 TOO LANGI Main Road 629203 TRENTHAM ~ arlet Street 241401 WAIL W11orne1a Nuisery Westnrn H1yhv.a, D1m!w 1, ,9 YAHAAM 31 Carnpllttll $1!1•rt 141 YARRAWONGA 18 Be11al la Aa ad 3388

CRESWICK

BEAUFORT - .....BALLA RAT

PREPARED 1N ORAUGHTING SECTION FORESTS CO MMISS ION VICTORIA.