Queensland

Parliamentary Debates [Hansard]

Legislative Assembly

THURSDAY, 28 OCTOBER 1976

Electronic reproduction of original hardcopy

Matters of Public Interest [28 OCTOBER 1976] Petitions 1295

THURSDAY, 28 OCTOBER 1976

Mr. SPEAKER (Hon. J. E. H. Houghton, Redcliffe) read prayers and took the chair at 11 a.m.

LOCKYER BY-ELECTION

RETURN OF WRIT !\fr. SPEAKER: Order! I have to inform the House that the writ issued by me on 10 September 1976 for the election of a mem­ ber to serve in the Legislative Assembly for the electoral district of Lockyer has been returned to me with a certificate endorsed thcreon by the returning officer of the elec­ tion, on 16 October 1976, of Anthony James Bourke, Esquire, to serve as such member.

MEMBER SWORN Mr. Bourke was introduced, took the oath of allegiance, and subscribed the roll.

PAPERS The following papers were laid on the table, and ordered to be printed:- Reports- State Fire Services Council, for the year 1975-76. Queensland Housing Commission, for the year 197 5-7 6. The following papers were laid on the table:- Orders in Council under- Racing and Betting Act 1954-1975. City of Brisbane Act 1924-1974. Regulations under- Workers' Compensation Act 1916-1974. Land Tax Act 1915-1974. Mining Act 1968-1976. Hospitals Act 1936-1976.

PETITIONS SECURITY AT ETNA CREEK PRISON Mr. HARTWIG (Callide) presented a peti­ tion from 27 residents of The Caves and Rockhampton districts praying that the Par­ liament of Queensland will initiate an in-depth inquiry into all aspects of prison security and prisoner classification at the Etna Creek Prison and also take action to have a warning system implemented so that residents may be warned of any escapes from the prison. Petition read and received. Mr. Houston interjected. Mr. SPEAKER: Order! Mr. Houston interjected. Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I warn the honour­ able member for Bulimba under Standing Order 123A. 1296 Questions Upon Notice [28 OcTOBER 1976] Questions Upon Notice

AMENDMENT OF LIQUOR AcT case may be to (a) Petrie, (b) Pinkenba, (c) Ferny Grove, (d) Shorncliffe, (e) Mr. HARTWIG (Callide) presented a peti­ Ipswich, (f) Lota and (g) Beenleigh tion from 21 electors of Queensland praying stations? that the Parliament of Queensland will amend (2) What will be the fares in each case the Liquor Act so as to allow golf and bowls after the increase of 15 per cent, as indi­ clubs to sell take-away bottled liquor to their members. cated in the Budget, is applied? (3) When will the increase take effect? Petition read and received. Answers:- (! and 2) The information sought by the QUESTIONS UPON NOTICE honourable member appears in Railway By-laws 1062 and 1072 published in the 1. INCREASED RAIL FARES Government Gaze'ltes of Saturday, 24 Mr. Houston, pursuant to notice, asked October 1975, and Saturday, 16 October the Minister for Transport- 197 6, respectively. I table the details of ( 1) What were the rail fares on the information and ask that it be includ­ 1 September for each of the journeys from ed in "Hansard". either Central or South Brisbane as the (3) 1 November 1976.

SUBURBAN RAIL FARES The rail fares at 1 September 1976 were:- I Multi Trip 3 Monthly -- Single I Return I Weekly Season From Brisbane Central To- $ $ $ $ Petrie ...... 0.65 1.30 3.90 43.00 Pinkenba ...... 0.40 0.80 I 2.80 31.00 Ferny Grove ...... 0.40 0.80 2.80 31.00 Shorncliffe ...... 0.50 1.00 3.40 38.00 Ipswich ...... 0.85 1.70 4.70 52.00 From South Brisbane To- Lota ...... 0.55 1.10 3.60 40.00 Beenleigh ...... 0.85 I 1.70 4.70 52.00

Fares on and from 1 November 1976 will be:-

Multi Trip 3 Monthly -- Single Return Weekly Season I I From Brisbane Central To- $ $ $ $ Petrie ...... 0.75 1.50 4.50 50.00 Pinkenba ...... 0.45 0.90 3.20 36.00 Ferny Grove ...... 0.45 0.90 3.20 36.00 Shorncliffe ...... 0.55 1.10 3.85 43.00 Ipswich ...... 0.95 1.90 5.30 59.00 From South Brisbane To- Lota ...... 0.65 1.30 4.20 47.00 Beenleigh ...... ·I 0.95 1.90 5.30 I 59.00

2. BELLEVUE BUILDING 20 ft. back from its present position, with a facade the same as the old building? Mr. Houston, pursuant to notice, asked the Minister for Works and Housing- ( 3) What is the estimated cost of this proposal? ( 1) What is the current situation in ( 4) What is the estimated cost of relation to the Bellevue building? restoration of the present Bellevue? (2) As reported on 4 October, have (5) Are there any plans to paint the Government officials recommended the building and restore the veranda and complete reconstruction of the building railings? Questions Upon Notice [28 OcTOBER 1976] Questions Upon Notice 1297

Answers:- I would therefore answer the questions as follows:- (1) The Bellevue building is being used at the present time for the purpose of (!) Any existing buildings or structures residential accommodation for members on lands affected by the provisions of the of Parliament. plan in question will not be affected by the coming into force of the modified (2} No. town plan. Any additions, altera:tions etc. of buildings or structures on or changes (3) See answer to (2). in use of such land would, however, be subject to the plan. (4) $3,000,000. (2) The rebuilding of the fire-damaged (5) See answers to (2), (3) and (4). shed at the McDonald Hamilton Wharf would be subject to the provisions of the modified plan once it is approved, and it would be necessary to ascertain the zoning of the subject land and the precise use to which the shed was being put in order 3. PROHIBITION ON DEVELOPMENT OF to be able to establish whether such re­ RIVER-FRONTAGE LAND, BRISBANE building could be permitted under the plan. As I have no information relating Mr. Lane, pursuant to notice, asked the to these matters or the exact location of Minister for Local Government and Main the land in question, I can offer no further Roads- comment on this aspect. ( 1) With reference to Part VIII River (3) It would seem to me that apart from Frontage of the Schedule to the Order in matters of navigation and the construction Council under the City of Brisbane of wharves and jetties, the use and devel­ Modified Town Plan, wherein the use or opment of land along the banks of the development of land within 30 metres of Brisbane River affected by the particular the Brisbane River is prohibited, as these provision of the modified plan referred to prohibitions include the erection of any would not be the concern of the Depart­ building, the parking of any vehicle or the ment of Harbours and Marine. I have no placing of any goods within this area, how knowledge as to whether any consultation will these requirements affect the sheds, took place between the Brisbane City Coun­ wharfage and other existing structures cil and that department in formulating the which are at present within the 30 metre provision in question. limit?

(2) Will this plan affect the rebuilding of the fire-damaged shed at the McDonald Hamilton wharf? 4. IMPACT OF RESTRICTIONS ON RESIDENTIAL B LAND, BRISBANE ( 3) As the Marine Services Department apparently does not know, were these Mr. Lane, pursuant to notice, asked the provisions of the town plan the subject Minister for Works and Housing- of any consultation between the Brisbane ( 1) Is he aware of the provisions of the City Council and the Marine Services Modified Town Plan, which has been pre­ Department? pared by the Brisbane City Council and which imposes new scales of density and other provisions inhibiting the develop­ Answers:- ment of zone B land? It is not correct to state tha:t the pro­ (2) Has he seen public comments which posed Modifid Town Plan for the City of indicate that the town plan will effectively Brisbane, which is presently on public cut by half the amount of land available exhibition, will prohibit the use of land on which flats can be built? within specified distances from the Bris­ bane River where the use of such land (3) In view of the desperate need for would, in terms of the plan be permitted, more Housing Commission aged person either as of right or with the consent of flats in Greater Brisbane, is he concerned the Brisbane City Council. that the town plan will place further obstacles and costs on the ability of the I am advised that the provision of the commission to acquire land for the con­ plan referred to requires that, withln the struction of aged person units? distances specified in ·the plan from the banks of the Brisbane River in the areas Mr. IDNZE: In answer to question No. indicated, if the development of land pro­ posed is not a prohibited use of land in 4- terms of the plan, then such use may be permitted, subject to the consent of the Answers:- council being first obtained. (1 and 2) Yes. 1298 Questions Upon Notice (28 OCTOBER 1976] Questions Upon Notice

(3) As the honourable member is aware, to question No. 4 directed by the honour­ the Modified Town Plan for the City of able member for Merthyr to the Minister Brisbane is presently on public exhibition for Works and Housing is as follows:- pursuant to the City of Brisbane Town Plan Modification Act 1976. Answer:- The period of exhibition expires at (1 to 3) Considerable professional-staff 4 p.m. on Tuesday, 2 November 1976, time has been given and is being given and interested persons have a right of to study of the town plan and to discus­ obiection to the Modified Town Plan pro­ sion with council officers. I am very con­ vided such objections are lodged prior to cerned with the plan's possible effects on the above time. the provision of housing, and if con­ sidered desirable formal objection will be The honourable member may be lodged. I have asked that an objection be assured that the provision of the Modified lodged. Town Plan referred to by him and all objections lodged thereto will receive full consideration when the plan is submitted by the council for the approval of the Governor in Council. 5. SPEECH THERAPISTS, MARYBOROUGH

Mr. LANE: I rise to a point of order. Mr. Alison, pursuant to notice, asked the Mr. Speaker, you did not call me for Minister for Education and Cultural Activ­ question No. 4 standing in my name. ities- ( 1) How many vacancies exist for Mr. SPEAKER: Order! As I understand speech therapists in the Education Depart­ it, the Minister for Local Government and ment? Main Roads answered the question on behalf (2) How long is it since Maryborough of the Minister for Works and Housing. last had a departmental speech therapist?

Mr. l-ANE: No, l'v1r. Speaker, that is not (3) What was the established number so. of speech therapists set for the department as at 30 June and how many vacancies were there at that date? Mr. HINZE: It was an honest mistake, Mr. Speaker. I was handed an answer to Answers:- question No. 4, but you did not call on me to answer the question. (1) At the present time there are 12 vacant positiOns for speech therapists, which will be filled in accordance with Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I understand that guide-lines determined by the Government the Minister for Works and Housing has within the limits of funds available. certain difficulties with his voice this morn­ ing, and I took it that he had given the (2) The last speech therapist attached to answer to another Minister to read on his the Education Department in Maryborough behalf. vacated that position in July 1974. (3) On 30 June 1976 the established Mr. LANE: With respect, Mr. Speaker, number of speech therapists was 48, with the answer that would have been given by 12 positions being vacant. the Minister for Works and Housing is different from that given by the Minister for Local Government and Main Roads. The answer given by the Minister for Local Government and Main Roads was not an 6. UPGRADING OF DULULU-\VESTWOOD answer to my question. It could not even ROAD be construed as such. The Minister for Works and Housing has the answer to the Mr. Hartwig, pursuant to notice, asked the question, and I should like to hear it. Minister for Local Government and Main Roads- Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I ask the Minister ( 1) Will he investigate the present for Works and Housing to give the answer Dululu-Westwood road section with a view to the question. to having it upgraded to highway classification? Mr. LANE: Mr. Speaker. I ask question (2) As the Banana Shire Council also No. 4 standing in my name. favours this scheme, will he agree to authorise design work to commence as Mr. I-EE: I am sure the Minister for soon as possible, with a view to declaring Local Government and Main Roads was this road a highway and so expediting only trying to save my voice. The answer permanent works and sealing? Questions Upon Notice [28 OcTOBER 1976] Questions Upon Notice 1299

AnsJVI'r:- 9. INQUIRY INTo QuEENSLAND EmJCATJON SYSTEM (1 and 2) I already have a report that was completed by the district engineer at Mr. Jenscn, pursuant to nor:ce, askeu Rockhampton regarding the Dululu-West­ the Minister for Education and. Cultural wood road and covering the matters raised Activities- by the honourable member. This report is being considered at present by my officers. (1) Has he seen the article in "The All hig~ways (except national highways) Courier-JV!ail" of 27 October headed and mam roads are rural arterial roads "Modern Education under Fire"? and are funded from this category. (2) In view of the serious statements Declaring the road a highway would not contained in the article will he set up therefore expedite its construction. I hope a committee of busine;s executive~ and to. c~mvince the Commonwealth Transport other interested citizens to look into our Mm1ster at the December meetina that modern education system and its effect on rural arterials throughout the "' State employment today? urgently need additional funds and this is what is needed 'to expedite c~nstruction. Answers:- (1) Yes; bat having read the article, which emanated from London, I note that it refers to various aspects of educa­ 7. PRE-SCHOOL CENTRE FOR YEPPOON tion in the United Kingdom. Mr. Hartwig, pursuant to notice, asked the (2) No. I believe ,that we alreudy have Min·ister for Education and Cultural a surfeit of committees of incpiry into Activities- education. As there is a great need for a pre-school centre at Y eppoon, what action has been taken to provide this facility and where will it be located? 10. UNFAIR CoMPETITION WITH Am CHARTER SERVICES Answer:- Mr. Aikens, pursuant to notice, ao:ked the In December last year I a~p~?ved a Minister for Transport- recommendation for the acqulS!tiOn of land to provide a site for the proposed Has he been advised that genuine pre-school at Yeppoon. Unfortunatdv Queensland companies conducting aircraft the property involved changed hands at charter services, which observe the stringent about the same ·time aiJJd the new owner regulations that apply to those services and had begun extensive improvements. As employ pilots, engineers and office staff, a result of this, further investigations are are being driven out of business by fly­ being made into alternative sites for the by-night operators from other States and p:e-school. I am not in a position to even from Queensland whose licences are gtve any details at this time but I under­ issued willy-nil!y by the State Govern­ stand that the matter is being treated as ment, in some cases grazing companies urgent. and firms that primarily secure a licence for their own business and then expand their franchise to cover any and all air charter activities, and, if so, is any action contemplated to stop this gross abuse of governmental co-operation? 8. NEW MALE WARD FOR BILOELA BASE HosPITAL Answer:- Mr. Hartwig, pursuant to notice, asked The issue of State licences for air charter the Minister for Health- services since the inception of licensing in As a new male ward for the Biloela this State in 1947 has been only with the Base Hospital was agreed to in principle prior approval of the Governor in Council last year, when will construction of this in each individual case in accordance with urgently needed ward be commenced? the provisions of the Transport Act of the day. This could hardly be termed willy­ nilly, which in the circumstances, to say the least, is a poor choice of words by the Answer:- honourable member. The commencement of construction will depend on the preparation of satisfactory I am aware of allegations of the nature documentation for this project and the concerned and, following criticism emanat­ availability of Ioan finance when such ing from certain operators in highly com­ documentation has been completed. petitive areas, policy was comprehensively 1300 Questions Upon Notice [28 OCTOBER 1976] Questions Upon Notice

reviewed earlier this year when it was Government grant, will provide employ­ decided to continue the existing long-estab­ ment for Aborigines and Islanders? lished practice. (2) As very little work has been done I would emphasise that no State charter and material and equipment are falling into licence is issued to an applicant in advance disrepair, what is the nature of the delay of the issue of a Commonwealth licence, and what is being done to remedy the which requires that an applicant satisfy the situation? following requirements:- (a) Be a legal entity; ( 3) When will this facility be completed? (b) Possess control of a suitable aircraft; Answers:- (c) Employ a properly qualified flight (1) Yes; the work is being carried out crew under the operational direction of by the Torres Shire Council with Com­ a chief pilot approved by the regional monwealth grants and State subsidy. director; (d) Have an approved maintenance (2) It is correct that little work is being organisation responsible for the main­ done at the moment, but I am assured that tenance of his aircraft; the material and equipment on hand are (e) Carry appropriate insurance as not falling into disrepair. The cause for required under the Civil Aviation (Car­ delay is shortage of money. An application riers' Liability) Act 1962-1972; has been made by the council for a further special works grant from the Common­ (f) Be regarded as a fit and proper wealth Department of Aboriginal Affairs of person to hold a licence. $70,000 for 1976-77, but this grant has not The above requirements do in practice yet been approved. I would hope that the impose a significant restriction on entry grant will soon be made available so that into the aerial charter industry, in terms the work can proceed. Expenditure to date of financial commitment, the qualifications is $102,000 and the total estimated cost is of personnel and the observance of main­ $420,000. tenance standards. ( 3) With sufficient funding, the work could be completed in two years.

11. BYPASS OVER RAIL CROSSING, RAILWAY ESTATE, TOWNSVILLE 13. SEALED ROAD AROUND THURSDAY Mr. Aikens, pursuant to notice, asked the ISLAND Minister for Local Government and Main Roads- Mr. Deeral, pursuant to notice, asked the Minister for Local Government and Main With regard to the proposal to build Roads- ~ bypass over the railway crossing at the entrance to the big South Yard shunting­ ( 1) Is he aware that the people of yard in Railway Estate, what are the Thursday Island have been hoping for a particulars of the bypass and, in view of sealed road around the island, which pre­ the growing need to eliminate the traffic sently has road conditions worse than hold-ups that are occurring more fre­ some of those in remote areas of my quently and are of ever-increasing dura­ electorate on the mainland? tion, what is the probable date when (2) When will the construction of this construction will commence? promised road begin? Answer:- (3) When will the road be completed? The planning is now in progress for this work. It is intended to commence this Answers:- work in the 1977-78 financial year. The (]) J personally inspected this ro;1d future road will provide a direct connection in February of this year and made from Railway Avenue by an overbridge arrangements for funds over the next two across the jetty line and the shunting yard years to construct a bitumen road around to the city. the island. (2) Victoria Parade and Hospital Road are being widened at present. Design of the balance of the ring road around the island 12. SWIMMING-POOL, THURSDAY ISLAND is well advanced, and work on it will Mr. Deeral, pursuant to notice, asked the commence early in 1977. Minister for Local Government and Main (3) I would expect the road to be com­ Roads- pleted in the next two years since funds (1) Is he aware that a swimming-pool, have been made available by the Main promised for construction on Thursday Roads Department and the work can pro­ Island by the State from a Commonwealth ceed as quickly as possible. Questions Upon Notice [28 OcTOBER 1976] Questions Upon Notice 1301

14. STAFF VACANCIES AT WOLSTON State. Available funds are committed to PARK HosPITAL June 1977, and I am not able to guess beyond that date when the present Mr. Marginwn, pursuant to notice, asked Commonwealth Act expires. the Minister for Health- ( 1) Is he aware that a number of vacant positions exist at the Wolston Park Hospital for which applications have not 16. SPEECH THERAPIST FOR MT. IsA been called, including six nursing super­ visors, five charge nurses and 11 deputy Mr. Bertoni, pursuant to notice, asked the charge nurses, and that some of the posi­ Minister for Education and Cultural Activi­ tions have been vacant for upwards of ties- 12 months? ( 1) With reference to his statement in (2) Why is there a delay in the filling Mt. Isa that if he could get speech of these positions with permanent appoint­ therapists to go to the country he would ments and when will the appointments be be willing to appoint them, has his depart­ made? ment received any application requesting an appointment to Mt. Isa? Answers:- (2) If so, when will an appointment be (1) At present, one Nursing Supervisor made? position, four Charge Nurse (Male) posi­ tions, three Deputy Charge Nurse (Male) Answers:- positions and nine Deputy Charge Nurse (Female) positions are vacant at Wolston (!) The Department of Education has Park Hospital, Wacol. All of these posi­ received inquiries about a speech therapy tions, with the exception of six Deputy position in Mt. Isa but no formal applica­ Charge Nurse (Female) positions have tion has been received to date. recently become vacant owing to resigna­ (2) As it is a new position, should a tion or retirement. formal application be received it will be (2) Action is in hand for the filling of considered within the guide-lines determ­ four Male Charge Nurse and two Male ined by the Government for the growth of Deputy Charge Nurse positions. the Public Service. Vacancies for Deputy Charge Nurses (Female) at Wolston Park Hospital were not filled when they came about some months ago as no suitable applicants were avail­ 17. ACCOMMODA T!ON FOR DISTRICT able for appointment at that time, or GUIDANCE OFFICER IN MT. lsA indeed, at the present time. Mr. Bertoni, pursuant to notice, asked the Appointments to these vacant female Minister for Works and Housing- positions and the position of Nursing As it is normal practice for the prin­ Supervisor are being withheld at this stage cipal and deputy principal of State schools pending the staff rearrangements neces­ to be supplied with Government accom­ sitated by the development of the new modation, what steps have been taken caring profession for the intellectually regarding accommodation for the new dis­ handicapped being implemented at Chal­ trict guidance officer in Mt. Isa? linor Centre and Basil Stafford Training Centre. ~ Answer:- I presume that the honourable member refers to residential accommodation. In 15. HousiNG CoMMISSION PENSIONER this case the matter is one for initiation by UNITS, REDLANDS the Department of Education. Arrange­ ments are in hand to provide office accom­ Mr. Goleby, pursuant to notice, asked the modation for this officer in the Special Minister for Works and Housing- Education Centre at the Mt. Isa Central ( 1) In view of the large number of aged State School. persons seeking accommodation in the Redlands electorate, will he investigate the problem? (2) Are suitable units for aged persons 18. UPGRADING OF ROADS, MARYBOROUGH­ able to be constructed and, if so, when HERVEY BAY will construction take place? Mr. Powell, pursuant to notice, asked the Minister for Local Government and Main Answer:- Roads- (1 and 2~ With applications currently ( 1) Has any request been received by at 1,500 I am well aware of the demand any council for the upgrading of the very for pensioner units in most parts of the important tourist road connecting the 1302 Questions Upon Notice [28 OCTOBER 1976] Questions Upon Notice

Brucc Highway with the Hervcy Bay-Mary­ (2) How many were refused? borough road from Torbanlea? (3) What were the reasons for the (2) When will the bitumen sealing of refusal in each category? the new section of the Maryborough-Hcr­ vey Bay road be completed? Answer:- Answers:- (1 to 3) Statistics of this kind are not maintained by the Police Department and ( 1) There have been many requests, but consequently I am unnble 10 supply ihe priority has been given to the Mary­ information sought. borough-Urangan Road. (2) Main Roads has recentiy taken over supervision of this job and is endeavouring to have the sealing completed towards the 22. COMMUNITY WELFARE ADVISORY end of this year. CoMMITTEE Mr. Dean, pursuant to notice, asked .the Minister for Community and 'Nelfare Servrces 19. HOUSING COMMISSION PENSIONER and Minister for Sport- UNITS, BAROLIN STREET, BUNDABERG ( 1) Has his attention been drawn I? the decision in South Austraha to appomt a Mr. Powell, pursuant to notice, asked the !\finister for Works and Housing- Community Welfare Advisory Committee to inquire into the assessment of applica­ As the company which contracted to tions for the adoption of children there? build the pensioner units in Barolin Street, Bundaberg, has not been able to fulfil the (2) How many people have applied contract, when will the much-needed units to adopt children this year compared be completed? with the numbers for the last five years in Queensland, and what is the current waiting list? Answer:- When the legal position with the con­ (3) In order to allevi<:t.e the so;netimes struction company is clear, a fresh contract unrealistically long wartmg penod for wii! be Jet to ensure early completion. applicants, will he consider imroducr~g a special Community ':Velfare Advrsory Committee along the lmes of the South Australian committee, which comprises a number of outstanding doctors, psychia­ 20. PRE-SCHOOL FOR PIALBA trists, church leaders, social \\ orkers and Mr. Powell. pursuant to notice, asked the community leaders, to make recommenda­ Minister f01: Education and Cultural tions on general criteria for adoption and Activities- generally ~to achieve a reasonable balan.ce of applications and the number of babres When will the pre-school promised becoming available? for Pialba be built? Answers:- Answer:- (1) I have now become aware of an Discussions involving the principals and article which appeared in •'The Advertiser", the parents and citizens' associations of the Adelaide, on Monday, 6 September 1976. primary school and the high school have (2) As indicated in m,y int~oducto~y been conducted with a view to obtaining a speech for the departments Estimates m suitable site for a pre-school at Pialba. this Chamber on Thursday, 21 October These discussions have indicated that a 1976, the period for which pote~tial adop­ site exists but it will be necessary to con­ tive parents would have to wait for the duct certain inspections before a final adoption of children is- decision is made. Subject to the accepta­ bility of the suggested site and to the avail­ Male-Up to 30 months according ability of funds, construction should to religious denomination. proceed during 1977-78. Female-Up to 39 months according to religious denomination. All applications received as at the close of the financial years were- 21. PERMITS FOR MARCHES, BRISBANE Year ended 30 June 1976--953 Mr. Dean, pursuant to notice, asked the Year ended 30 June 1975-2,099 Minister for Police- Year ended 30 June 1974-2,201 (1) How many applications for permits Year ended 30 June 1973-2,068 to hold marches in the Brisbane City area Year ended 30 June 1972-2,294 were received in 1973, 1974, and 1975? Year ended 30 June 1971-1,938. Questions Upon Notice [28 OcTOBER 1976] Questions Upon Notice 1303

(3) Since 11 May 1976, an Adoption Exploration Qld. Pty. Ltd., and Freeport Policy Review Committee has been estab­ Queensland Nickel Inc. come within the lished in the Department of Children's ambit of the Act notwithstanding any Services to make recommendations to the agreement between these companies and the Director of Children's Services, and Government? through him to me on the general criteria for adoptions within this State. In addi­ (2) How does he reconcile the exemp­ tion, under the auspices of the Queens­ tion of these companies (as well as land Council of Social Services, five task Australian Paper Manufacturers Ltd. which groups are examining specific aspects of discharges into the North Pine River adoption. These task groups will report at Petrie, Nestles Food Specialities (Aust.) to Q.C.O.S.S. and it will forward the Ltd., which discharges into the Mary River findings and recommendations to me. at Gympie, and Parson & Lewis, which discharges into the Aquarium Passage at The five task groups are each under a Hemmant), which are exempted under convenor and the chairman of convenors section 6 because they have entered into is the Honourable Mr. Justice Demack. The agreements under section lOA of the groups are dealing with the following Health Act, with the information that all topics:- people are equal before the law and the (i) The objectives of the adoptive declared policy of the Government that practice. it is serious about ensuring that Queens­ (ii) The placement practice for Abori­ land waters are unpo11uted? ginal and Torres Strait Island children. (iii) Children with special needs for Answers:- families, for example children with handicaps, older children. (1) It is not necessary to take any action to bring the companies mentioned (iv) Inter-country adoption. within the ambit of the Clean Waters Act; (v) Developmental needs of adoptive therefore my answer to ,this question is children and their families. no. The formation of these groups arose (2) The reasons for the provisions con­ following the first Australasian conference tained in section 6 (2) of the Clean Waters on adoption held in Sydney earlier this Act 1971-1976 is that the discharge of year at which my department was repre­ wastes into watercourses by the companies sented by two senior officers. The topics mentioned, in the course of mining opera­ referred to the task groups were thought tions carried out by them under an agree­ to be in need of further discussion and ment specified in that section, is subject to Q.C.O.S.S. undertook to convene a seminar the provisions of that agreement. As an at which I gave the opening address. It example, the agreement set out in the was at that seminar that the five task schedule to the Greenvale Agreement Act groups were formed. requires that any drainage discharge by Until the recommendations from the the companies specified in that agreement experienced officers within the Department into a river or stream as a result of their of Children's Services and from various mining operations shall not be dangerous members of the community already con­ or injurious to health nor render the natural water in the river or stream less tributing to the Q.C.O.S.S. groups are received, I do not propose to commit fit for human consumption or consumption myself on the establishment, or other­ by stock or for marine life, shall not cause wise, of an advisory committee. harmful pollution of waters and shall not contain harmful solids. Similar provisions are contained in the other Acts mentioned in section 6 (2) of the Clean Waters Act 1971-1976. 23. WATER POLLUTION BY INDUSTRIAL EFFLUENT It will be noted that control over the Mr. Dean, pursuant to notice, asked the discharge of wastes into natu!'al waters by Minister for Local Government and Main the companies specified in section 6 (2) of Roads- the Clean Waters Act 1971-1976 in the course of their mining operations is already ( 1) With reference to the publication dealt with in the terms and conditions of entitled "Legalized Pollution" released by the agreements mentioned, and accordingly the Public Interest Research Group, in the provisions of the Clean Waters Act which criticism was made of section 6 of 1971-1976 do not have application to such the Clean Waters Act, which exempts discharges by the companies in terms of certain leading industries from the control their agreements. of the Act, will he undertake to ensure that Commonwealth Aluminium Cor­ The agreements made under section 10 poration Pty. Ltd., Alcan Qld. Pty. Ltd., (A) of the Health Act prior to the passing Thiess Peabody Mitsui Coal Pty. Ltd., of the Clean Waters A'C! 1971 similarly Utah Development Company, Metals cover any discharge into rivers or streams 1304 Questions Upon Notice [28 OcTOBER 1976] Questions Upon Notice

and it is not necessary 'that these dis­ With interest at a concessional 7t per charges be dealt with under the Clean cent, as well as these other benefits, buyers Waters Act. are generously treated. The agreements referred to adequately cover the siruation and involve no departure from the policy of .the Govern­ ment to ensure prote,ction of the waters 26. MOTORISTS CHARGED FOR WARNING concerned. OTHERS OF RADAR TRAPS Mr. Ahern for Mrs. Kyburz, pursuant to notice, asked the Minister for Police- ( 1) How many motorists in Brisbane have been charged with having hindered 24. BRISBANE CITY COUNCIL CIRCULARS a member of the Police Force in the ON RATIONALISATION OF ELECTRICITY execution of his duty, particularly SUPPLY motorists who warn others of radar traps Mr. Ahem for l\1rs. Kyburz, pursuant to on the road ahead? notice, asked the Minister for Mines and Energy- (2) What penalties have so far been imposed on these motorists? ( 1) Has his attention been drawn to the fact that the Brisbane City Council is using ( 3) How many extra police are needed the mailing of rate notices as yet another on a radar trap or speed-gun site to catch opportunity to confuse ratepayers about motorists in this relatively minor offence? the rationalisation of electricity? Answers:- ( 2) As this latest costly attempt to stir dissent states that ratepayers should fill in (! and 2) Statistics of this kind are not the form and send it to the council, is kept by the Police Department and, con­ there any way in which the council can sequently, I am unable to supply the stop the legislation as it threatens to do? information sought. (3) No extra police are usually required. An.l'wers:- However, when information is received of (1) Yes. this hindrance, additional police are then sent to the scene to catch this type of (2) The Bill is before Parliamerut, which offender as well as traffic offenders gener­ is the appropriate and only body whloh ally. Whether the offence could be can decide whether it will be passed. regarded as "relatively minor" is debatable. I do not consider the enforcement of any laws which could have an effect of reduc­ ing the toll of the road as being unimport­ ant. Police must rely on the co-operation of members of the public in the discharge 25. VALUATION OF HOUSING CoMMIS­ of their duties. If police are to achieve SION HoUSES their objectives, including the reduction of the toll of the road, the co-operation of Mr. Ahern for Mrs. Kyburz, pursuant to the public must be forthcoming and there notice, asked the Minister for Works and should be no hindrance to police in carry­ Housing- ing out this important facet of police How is the valuation of a Housing Com­ duties. mission house determined when a tenant is desirous of purchasing it under the new easy-purchase scheme? 27. REPAINTING OF CAVENDISH ROAD HIGH Answer:- ScHOOL The commission >bases its calculation of Mr. Byrne, pursuant to notice, asked the replacement value on its own construction Minister for Works and Housing- costs shown in recent contracts for a similar type of house. This is then ( 1) Is he aware of the deplorable state depredated for age. It also allows a of the external paint on the Cavendish deduction of the principal paid as part of Road High School? rent. (2) When will repainting be com­ Purchasers thus receive the benefit of menced? lower commission construction costs, a generous allowance for age and whatever Answer:- they have paid off the principal. In addition, purchases are exempt from stamp (1 and 2) Aotion is in train to paint the duty, and the commission does convey­ building externally in a staged programme ancing free of charge. and quotations for the painting of Blocks Questions Upon Notice (28 OCTOBER 1976] Questions Upon Notice 1305

A, B, C and D are presently being con­ Entrance Statements prior to 1979, if sidered. A decision on these quotations they were recognised by tertiary institu­ is being expedited. It is expected that the tions, and after that, not at all. successful contractor will make a start on the work soon thereaf,ter. The honourable member will be formally advised of the decision by me in accordance with usual 29. REVIEW OF STATE EMERGENCY practice. SERVICE Mr. Byrne, pursuant to notice, asked the Minister for Police- ( 1) Is he aware of an article in the "Australian Financial Review" of 25 28. RECOGNITION OF AUSTRALIAN October entitled "Queanbeyan F1ood Crisis COLLEGE OF MUSIC tests Emergency Service Network"? Mr. Byrne, pursuant to notice, asked the (2) Will he ensure that the procedures Minister for Education and Cultural and facilities of Queensland's State Activities- Emergency Service are re-evaluated against the experience of the Queanbeyan operation ( 1) As I am a former student, graduate and amended where necessary in readiness and examiner of the Australian College for the impending wet season? of Music, which is accorded general public recognition and exists under letters patent, and as I am concerned that its graduates Answers:­ and those who choose to study within that (!) Yes. college instead of the Australian Music (2) Information is regularly excchanged Examination Board are not enabled to have between the State Emergency Service in these studies and results recognised by his Queensland and similar organisations in department and the Board of Secondary the other States, a!lid information regard­ School Studies, why is this recognition ing the opemtions at Queanbeyan has not accorded? already been received. The procedures (2) When will recognition be given to and facilities of the State Emergency Ser­ those people who are desirous of studying vice are under constant review. with the Australian College of Music instead of with the Australian Music Examination Board? 30. MUNDUBBERA STATE SCHOOL Answers:- Mr. K. J. Hooper, pursuant to notice, asked the Minister for Education and Cultural (1) Junior and Senior Certificates issued Activities- by the Board of Secondary School Studies ( 1) How many students does his depart­ are based on school assessments. Results ment expect will be attending the obtained by students in examinations con­ Mundubbera State Primary School in duoted by outside bodies such as the 1977? Australian Music Examinations Board (2) What proposals for improvements are not recorded on those certificates. are in train for the school? Where, however, a tertiary institution recognises results of an outsude examining Answer:- body such as the A.M.E.B. for admission (1 and 2) The needs of this school have purposes, the board records such results been brought to my attention by ·the local on the Tertiary Entrance Statement which member the Honourable N. T. E. HeMtt, it issues, as a service to students, so M.L.A., Minister for Water Resources, maintaining a practice which was in exist­ and has been the subject of correspond­ ence in 1973 when the board assumed ence between him and me. If the hon­ responsibilities for grade 12 assessments. ourable member is so concerned about Results obtained in examinations conducted this matter, I would suggest that he discuss by the Australian College of Music are it with the Honourable the Minister for not recorded on the board's Tertiary Water Resources. Entrance Statement, because they are not recognised by tertiary institutions for admission purposes.

(2) The practice of recording A.M.E.B. 31. RESUMPTION OF INQUIRY BY SCOTLAND results in music will be !discontinued after YARD DETECTIVES 1978. In subsequent years, the board will record only ·those assessments for Mr. K. J. Hooper, pursuant to notice, asked which it is responsible. Results in exam­ the Minister for Police- inations conducted by an outside examining When will the Scotland Yard detectives body such as the Australian College of return and complete their inquiry and Music could only be recorded on Tertiary what is the reason for the delay? 1306 Questions Upon Notice (28 OCTOBER 1976] Questions Upon Notice

Answer:- (2) How many police officers were As previomJy advised in this House, the en1ployed in the force in each subsequent return of the Scotland Yard detectives to month to September 1976? Queensland is contingent on finalisation of (3) How many people applied to join court proceedings presently in progress the force for each month from January against two members of the Queensland 1975 to September 1976, and how many Police Force and others. were successful? ( 4) How many officers resigned from the force in each month between January 1975 and September 1976? 32. POLICE OFFICERS AND APPLICANTS (5) Which police districts do not hme Mr. K. J. Hooper, pursuant to notice, asked a 24-hour police station. the Minister for Police- Answers:- ( 1) How many police officers were employed in the Queensland Police Force (1 to 4) I table the answers and ask in January 1975? that they be incorporated in "Hans:ud".

--~------~~- Str:~gth of -~-~~~lications -~-dn-1-it-te_d_t:_R_e_s-igna~ions- : Force Recei·1ed Training ------'------1975 January 3,467 145 25 12 February 3,474 166 22 9 March 3,479 109 23 9 April 3,489 118 21 8 May 3,502 116 24 14 June 3,487 82 42 17 July 3,489 91 18 11 August 3,480 91 17 12 September 3,496 77 13 3 October 3,512 73 17 10 November 3,523 71 19 14 December 3,543 56 13 12 1976 January 3,544 108 21 19 February 3,541 142 23 11 March 3,539 84 34 16 April 3,546 97 20 9 May 3,594 86 55 13 June 3,610 56 19 8 July 3,616 74 19 11 August 3,631 51 13 3 September 3,633 59 20 15 ------·------NoTE.~The number of persons admitted to training do not necessarily relate to the number who applied during each particular month. Statistics of this kind are not kept. Usually, inquiries, medical examinations, etc., do not permit admission during the same month as the application is made. (5) There are no operational Police Districts not having a 24-hour station.

33. 1'-lcORMAL METHODS OF EDUCATION Bennett, author of Teaching Styles and Mr. lamont, pursuant to notice, asked the Pnpil Progress, as the report supports the Minister for Education and Cultural Briti:,h Prime Minister's charges against Activities- inf:Hm

(3) Does he foresee a rethinking or (2) How many resignations have even a soul-searching in his department occurred each month since January 1976? with respect to spending on so-called pro­ gressive education methods? (3) How many positions are unfilled'?

Answers:- Answers:--

(1) I h~''- e noted that British education (1) Public Service departments have ha-; become the centre of controversy been instructed that there is tD be no recently, :1nd that certain reports have been increase in their staff establishments as deb:1ted with considerable beat. Not hav­ approved at 30 June 1976. ing first-hand knowledge of British schools, (2)- I prefer to maintain an objective interest in such reporb. January 378 February 271 (2) I be ve visited many Queensland class­ ]\larch 207 rooms since assuming my portfolio, and I April 186 invite the honourable member to do the 201 ~ame. He will be reassured if he does. May June 213 (3) If the honourable member is referr­ July 240 ing to careful professional consideration, /\ugust 165 ! assure him that this is a continuous pro­ cess carried out within my department by September 170 directors rwd tile various boards and com­ October (to elate) 104 mittees which advise them. As finance for education is precious, nobody respons­ (3) It is not possible to give a precice ible for it> consumption is likely to advo­ answer at any given time without consult­ cate spending on methods which have not ing every Public Service department. How­ been thoroughly considered. ever, on recent examination there were approximately 2,000 vacancies and this is consistent with the position that normally obtains. These had occurred from a variety of causes and the usual procedure is being 34. BUSl~ESS ADVISORY COUNCIL take11 for the filling of these positions. Mr. Yewdale, pursuant to noti<::e. asked the Premier- (1) Who arc the members of the Bus­ iness Adv:sory Council~ 30. fLLUMINAT!ON OF EXECUTIVE BUILDING ExTERIOR; Co-ORDINATOR-GENERAL's (2) How long has the council been in DEPARTMENT RENOVATIO"-!S existence and when will it be furnishing a report to the Parliament? Mr. Yewllalc, pursuant to notice, asked the Premier- Answer:- ( 1) What was the cost of outside light­ ing of the State Executive Building for (1 arrd 2; The need to establish a Business the last financial year? Advisory Cnnncil, as such, diminished with the defeat of the Whitlam Government in (2) What is the cost of renovations for 1975. IVIy Government maintains a regular the Co-ordin:1tor-General's Department to conta:::t with tre State's industrial and com­ move from the 1Oth and 11th floors to mercial &ector through the Department of the 2nd and 3 rd floors in the State Exec­ Commercizll and Industrial Development. utive Building~ Fr ~quent discussions are held with the busi­ nC"ss comrm1nity not cnly in Brisbane but in provin,: 1rd c"ntres throughout tile State .Answers:- \\'ith a v:c"' to gaining a grea~er under­ (1) $10,000. s! anding of needs and requirements. Fur­ thermore, close liaison is mJintained with i2) $179,250. t~e Commonwealth Government in all matters perta:ning to the State's economic progr ~ss. 37. PERSON.\L INCOME TAX SHARING 1\Ir. Prest, pursuant to notice, asked the 35. PU:->UC SERVICE STAFFING Deputy Premier and Treasurer- Has he read the Local (Personal Income I\ir~ Ye1tvdaJe, pursuant to notice, asked Tax Sharing) Act and the States (Personal the Premier- Income Tax Sharing) Act, which were ( 1) When will the proposed ceiling in recently introduced into the Commonwealth the growt'l of the Public Service apply? Parliament? If so, is he in total agreement 1308 Questions Upon Notice [28 OcTOBER 1976] Questions Upon Notice

with the proposals and, if not, what rep­ (2) What charges were made for water resentation has he or any other member in 1974-75, 1975-76 and 1976-77 by these of this Government made to the Com­ councils? monwealth Government? (3) What charges were made by the Gladstone City Council for water for Answer:- domestic use in the same years? The measures to which the honourable member has referred are not Acts. Bills have been introduced into the Common­ Answers:- wealth Parliament and copies forwarded ( 1) On information at present available, by the Commonwealth to the State. The the three local authorities with populations proposed legislation is generally in accord over 10,000 with the highest domestic with pdnciples agreed at successive Pre­ water charge are the Mt. Isa City Council, miers' Conferences but there are some Landsborough Shire Council and Mulgrave aspects of the Bill dealing with the local Shire Council. government tax sharing arrangement on which the State Government would prefer (2) The domestic water charges in the a different approach, and these aspects three areas are:- have been raised by the Premier with the Prime Minister. I 1974-75 I1975-7611976-77 $ $ I $ 126 38. RETENTION MONEY, ScHOOL DENTAL Mt. Isa 67 67 li CLINIC, GARDEN STREET, SOUTHPORT Lands borough 39 71 95 Mulgrave 48 70 89 Mr. Prest, pursuant to notice, asked the Minister for Works and Housing- Gladstone 45 85 45 1 ( 1) In relation to the construction of the school dental clinic at Garden Street, (3) The charges quoted are as calculated Southport, was any retention money held on a common basis of a residence with by the State Government for the purpose a floor area of 1,200 sq. ft. of offsetting any loss incurred as a result of a contractor being unable to complete the project as per contract and, if so, how much was retained? (2) Will the retention money be used on 40. FINES AND FEES, ART UNION this particular project? REGULATIONS (3) If sub-contractors have a secured Mr. Wright, pursuant to notice, asked the charge on work completed under the Sub­ Minister for Justice and Attorney-General- contractors' Charges Act will they have access to the retention money? ( 1) How many organisations have been fined or levied additional fees for con­ Answers:- travening the Art Union Regulations during the 12-month period to 1 August 1976. (I) A retention of $2,688.00 is held under this contract on the value of work, (2) What was the total amount of fines satisfactorily completed. or additional fees involved? (2) Yes. ( 3) What are the total receipts to date by way of registration fees for approved (3) Claims under the Subcontractors' associations under the newly amended Charges Act, to the extent that they are regulations and how many organisations substantiated, have prior claim over any have been registered? moneys in hand after meeting the cost of completing the works. Answers:- (]) No organisations have been fined for contravening the Art Union Regula­ 39. CoUNCIL CHARGES FOR WATER FOR tions during the 12-month period, but 53 DOMESTIC UsE organisations have been required to pay fees for conducting unlawful art unions. Mr. Prest, pursuant to notice, asked the Minister for Local Government and Main (2) A total of $46,369.99 in fees has Roads- been imposed for such unlawful art unions. ( 1) Which three councils, with a popula­ (3) A total of $145,322.64 registration tion in excess of 10,000, make the highest fees has been received. 2,386 organisations water charges for domestic use? have been registered. Questions Upon Notice [28 OcTOBER 1976] Questions Upon Notice 1309

41. STANDARD OF LIVING QUARTERS FOR people living on reserves was $50,000 and FETTLERS to the answer to my question on 20 October when he said that his department provided Mr. Wright, pursuant to notice, asked the deserted wives an average standard of Minister for Transport- living commensurate with that provided Cl) What does his department believe by the Children's Services Depart­ is a reasonable standard of living quarters ment, does this not mean that, considering for fettlers? the average supporting mother receives (2) Is he satisfied with the present $54.75 and $7.50 for each additional child, standard of the facilities and, if not, what only something of the order of up to 20 action is being taken to upgrade them on women would have been receiving this a State-wide basis? benefit from his department for that par­ ticular year? Answer:- (2) Will he give an undertaking to the ( 1 and 2) The Railway Department is House that officers of the Department pursuing an increasingly extensive pro­ of Aboriginal and Islanders Advancement gramme for the provision of new quarters will ensure that mothers and their children and accommodation and the upgrading of who are eligible to receive the family existing accommodation for employees assistance allowance from the Children's including fettlers. Last financial year Services Department, but who are not $1,064,000 was expended in this direction; receiving it, will now receive their just this year the provision is $2,650,000. In entitlements? addition, $1,600,000 was spent last fin­ ancial year on the maintenance of the (3) If so, will he inform this House and 2, 700 residences provided by the depart­ the eligible women and children living ment for the accommodation of employees. on these reserves the date from which they will be able to make application, be paid and receive this benefit to which they are justly entitled? 42. SWIMMING-POOL AT CENTRAL GIRLS ScHooL, RocKHAMPTON Answer:- Mr. Wright, pursuant to notice, asked the (1 to 3) The honourable member is re­ Minister for Works and Housing- minded that my comment was: "in other ( 1) Will he initiate an urgent review of words less than $50,000 was spent in a his department's decision to scrap the way which could be construed as a hand­ swimming-pool at the old Central Girls out". I emphasise the word "hand-out" School, Rockhampton, because of the as I do not consider an entitlement to be a tremendous benefit to the new opportunity "hand-out". Entitlements of people are school and the National Fitness movement absorbed in the total cost of administra­ if the pool can be retained? tion of communities, whereas the amount referred to is additional benefit in the (2) While it is accepted that the cost areas set out. of retaining the pool would be high, what would be the cost if a completely new The honourable member is referred to pool was provided? my answer of 20 October, and I can add (3) What decision has been made that negotiations are well advanced to a regarding the removal of part or all of change-over being effected shortly. the old Central School building adjacent to the pool?

Answers:- 44. REMOVAL OF DISCRIMINATION AG.\!NST ABORIGINES AND ISLANDERS (!) No. Technical officers of my depart­ ment have assessed the old swimming-pool Mr. Marginson for Mr. Jones, pursuant as being beyond economic repair. to notice, asked the Minister for Aboriginal (2) In the vicinity of $100,000. and Islanders Advancement and Fisheries- ( 3) The future use of the building is ( 1) With reference to recent Common­ still under consideration. wealth legislation, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders (Queensland Dis­ criminatory Laws) Act, which was passed with the support of the Liberal-National 43. FAMILY AssiSTANCE ALLOWANCE Country Parties in the Senate and is designed to remove the discriminatory pro­ Mr. Marginson for Mr. Jones, pursuant visions of the Queensland Aborigines and to notice, asked the Minister for Aboriginal Torres Strait Islanders Acts, what is the and Islanders Advancement and Fisheries- attitude taken by his department in rela­ ( 1) With reference to recent reports and tion to the administration of the reserves his statement that direct personal aid last in the light of this Commonwealth legis­ financial year to Aboriginal and Islander lation? 1310 Questions Upon Notice [28 OCTOBER 1976] Questions Without Notice

(2) Does he consider himself to be men on the settlements may approach the bound by this legislation and, if so, what women and take money from them forc­ actual changes will occur on the reserves ibly, and if this happened they would, of to ensure that people residing on them course, still be destitute. Providing assist­ will receive the benefits of this legislation? ance in kind requires proper -administra­ tive machinery. The present presumption Answer:- is that the term "in such form" means assistance in kind, bnt it may be necess­ (1 anJ 2\ The honourable member should ary to seek a Crown Law opinion on this be aware that the laws of the land, in matter. For this reason I am not able accordance with the Constitution, have to give a precise date of hand-over. universal application. Should at any time they become redundant, repressive or un­ In addition to administrative arrange­ just, it is a responsibility of the lawmak­ ments, the question of staffing will have ers to ettect remedial measur~s. to be examined by officers of the two departments and probably by the Depart­ ment of the Public Service Board. (2) Officers of my department will, of 45. FA!>'ILY ASSISTANCE ALLOWANCE course, co-operate with officers of the Department of Aboriginal and Islanders fvk. Marginson for Mr. .Jones, pursuant Advancement, so that Aboriginal people to notice, asked the Minister for Community know what they are eligible to receive, and Welfare Services and Minister for and process applications for them. Sport- ( 1) Wi1h reference to recent reports that Aboriginal and Islander women living on 46. EFFECT OF INCREASED RAIL reserves, :settlements, communities and/ or FREIGHTS ON SMALL FARMERS missions in Queensland, who, although eligi.ble to receive the family assistance Dr. ScoU-Young, pursuant to notice, asked allowance from the Children's Services De­ the Deputy Premier and Treasurer- partment, are not receiving it, when are As there is considerable apprehension women living on the re:.erves able to make concerning the viability of small-crop, app!ic:1tion to his department for the benefits? vegetable and fruit farms in the North since the recent increase in rail freight (2) Will officers of his department co­ rates, will he consider varying the charges operate with officers of the Aboriginal and if these farms prove not viable because Islanders Advancement Department who of the recent increase in charges? are running the reserves, to ensure that women know that they are eligible to receive this benefit, and process applica­ Answer:- tions for them? The honourable member should direct his question to the Honourable the Min­ ister for Transport. A r.Slver.~·:~ (l) My colleague the 1\Iinister for Abor­ iginal and Islanders Adnncement com­ mented in the Chamber on the evening of 26 Octobe; 1976 that he L1 voured the QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE handing over of responsibility for the pay­ FR \SER !SI \l'>:D SAND-M!NlNG PROPOSAL ment of family assistance to the Depart­ ment of Children's Services. Mr. ALISON: I ask the Minister for Mines and Energy: Has his attention been There are some det:-tils relating to this drawn to the editorial in "The Australian" matter which will have to be discussed of Wednesday, 27 October, stating without between my colle:-tgue and me, and a num­ anv apology whatever that the only way ber of administrative m:-ttter'i which will to-save Fraser Island is

meeting of the 250 employees of sand-min­ Fraser's federalism, or is Queensland just ing companies on Fraser Island whose jobs unable to present a worth-while case? are in jeopardy, so that they can explain to those workers that the temporary distm:b­ ance to the sand dunes is far more import­ Mr. LEE: I have had long discussions with ant than their livelihood? Finally, if Fraser the Federal Minister for Housing (Mr. New­ Island is declared as part of the National man) on the voucher system. Whilst it has Estate, would this not mean that the jobs merit in places where housing is plentiful, I of 700 to 800 Maryborough timber and believe Queens.Jand would be better off sa-.vmill workers would be in jeopardy? spending that portion of money through the welfare housing scheme, and it is for that reason that we are not included in the Mr. CAMM: Following the Fraser Island Environmental Inquiry report, a lot of voucher scheme. asc,umptions and assertions have been made as to what the result of the report would be. Mr. HOUSTON: I ask a supplementary As the honourable member is aware, the question of the Minister for Works and result will depend entirely on the Federal Housing: As the Minister has been so careful Government, which may or may not exercise to explain how he wants the money to be controls over the export of minerals from spent, will Queensland receive additional the island. money for welfare housing? In the editorial referred to by the honour­ able member, the inference is drawn that Mr. LEE: This all started back in the the lakes, forests and coloured sands are in Whitlam days. The Whitlam Government jeopardy. Anyone with any common sense gave Queensland the rawest possible housing whatever would have taken the trouble to deal of any of the States. Queensl:md receives find out if these features are in jeopardy. $18 per head for welfare housing compared There is no chance of mining taking place with the Australian average of $25. The in any forestry area on Fraser Island or of Opposition can thank the Whitlam Govern­ the lakes being placed in jeopardy. As to ment for losing Queensland at least the coloured sands, they are of no interest $80,000,000 in that field. The Australian whatever to any mining company. The col­ Labor Party will go down in history as oured sands are caused by vegetable stains robbing the people of Queensland of that not by mineralisation. amount of money. On three occasions 1 wrote to Ministers of the former Govern­ I am gravely concerned at the suppositions ment-J ohnson, Reardon and so on. They ~rrived at by many people in relation to were coming and going like yo-yos. Whit­ Fraser Island. Only a very small percentage lam was hiring and firing them so quickly of the area of the island would be mined. that, before a letter would be answered. If the Commonwealth Government in its a new Minister would be in the portfolio. wisdom decides ,to invoke its powers and It was impossible to receive an answer. refuse to grant export permits to the sand­ mining companies, the people on Fraser Since the present Government assumed Island and in the Maryborough area will office, I have written to the late Senator Ivor 'ufTer a tremendous blow. Greenwood. As the Opposition would know, he was not sacked. Now that Mr. Newman The honourable member is quite correct is the Minister, I have written to him in stating that irresponsible people and cer­ explaining Queensland's position. I am look­ tain conservationists have distorted the facts. ing forward to a reply from him. If they were to come up to Maryborough and talk with the men employed there, they might change their view. As to the suggestion that Fraser Island be STRIKE AT CoLLINSVILLE PowER STATION declared part of the National Estate and the result of such a declaration on the jobs of Mr. ARMSTRONG: I ask the Acting men engaged in the industry-all I can say Premier: Has his attention been drawn to is that I am thankful that the timber industry the desperate position of industry in North does not depend for its livelihood on the Queensland as a result of the irresponsible export of i:s products. I am quite sure I soeak union action at the Collinsville Power Station. for the Government of Queensland when I say which has resulted in power restrictions and, that there is no intention whatever of plac­ in turn, loss of production and the stand­ ing in jeopardy the timber and sawmilling down of employees? Will he consider industry that relies for its supply of logs declaring a state of emergency or taking some on Fraser Island. other action which will ensure a continuous supply of electricity, thus relieving the chantic state of affairs that now exists? HOUSING VOUCHER ALLOWANCE SCHEME Mr. CAMI\'1:: I am quite aware of the Mr. HOUSTON: I ask the Minister for circumstances prevailing in North Queens­ Works anid Housing: Why was Queensland land at the present time as the result of not included in the housing voucher allow­ the action of 57 maintenance =,p]oyees at ance scheme? Is this another example of Mr. the Collinsville Power Station, who are 1312 Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates) demanding a $10-a-day isolation allowance vast area of the State and the need to ensure to work in Collinsville. The manager of the that in all development due consideration is Northern Electric Authority (Mr. McKay) given to use for rural, urban, mining and in­ has indicated to the men that their case dustrial purposes, and the encouragement to should go to the Full Bench of the Industrial improve supplies on indiv,idual holdings. Conciliation and Arbitration Commission. The repercussions of their claim, if granted, would be so widespread and would affect so 1976-77 APPROPRIATIONS many of the so-called isolated areas in The total appropriations for expenditure Queensland that it is the most important by the Irrigation Commission, from all decision to be made in the field of industrial sources, amount to $35,737,498. This is pro­ relations not just in the electricity industry but in all industries in Queensland. vided from- Revenue Fund $8,375,510 Employers' associations are applying for Loan Fund $17,550,000 stand-down orders in respect of employees Trust Funds .. $9,811,988 who, because of the action of this small group of men in Collinsville, cannot be gain­ Loan funds have been augmented by fully employed. I have appealed to the men $1,450,000 additional to that which the com­ to submit their case to arbitration so that mission would normally be allocated to the commission, which is the proper place enable progress to be maintained on the for solving the problem, can assess their Commonwealth-financed projects of Mon­ claim and deliver a jud§ment. Instructions duran Dam/Gin Gin channel and Kinchant have been issued ,to keep vital industries Dam where Commonwealth funds are or will supplied with as much electricity as possible; be exhausted during the year. but unfortunately severe rationing will have to be implemented on many industries in It is of interest to note that the trust funds North Queensland if the men do not go back include moneys provided by the Common­ to work. wealth, various mining companies, Mount Isa Water Board, debenture loans raised by the commissioner and repayments by landholders. At 12 noon. To provide funds for capital works addi­ In accordance with the provisions of Stand­ tional to the loan allocation, the commissioner ing Order No. 307, the House went into has been authorised to borrow funds by Committee of Supply. debenture loan raisings. Since early 1973, loans totalling $5,313,900 have been raised for Ju!ius Dam (spare capacity), Blackwater water-supply scheme, Saraji·Dysart stock SUPPLY water supply and three bore water supply areas. Debenture loans of $800,000 will be RESUMPTION OF COMMITTEE-ESTIMATES­ raised ,in 1976-77 for the Julius Dam (spare FIFTH AND SIXTH ALLOTTED DAYS capacity) and Blackwater water-supply (Mr. Miller, Ithaca, in the chair) schemes. EsTIMATES-IN-CHIEF, 1976-77 COMMONWEALTH ASSfSTANCE WATER RESOURCES Commonwealth grants will provide DEPARTMENT OF IRRIGATION AND WATER $4,318,059, of which $3,422,859 is for the SUPPLY construction of rural water-supply works and Hon. N. T. E. HEWITT (Auburn-Minis­ $895,200 in continuation of the programme ter for Water Resources) (12.1 p.m.): I of measurement and assessment of surface move- and underground water supplies. Since 1967- 68 we have obtained grants from the Com­ "That $8,375,510 be granted for 'Depart- monwealth of $45,750.000 for the construc­ ment of Irrigation and Water Supply'." tion of works, which over a number of years enabled a virtual doubling of expenditure for In recent years the State has enjoyed favour­ this purpose. able seasonal conditions. Honourable mem­ bers, particularly those representing country It is unfortunate that the payments in this areas, are, however, only too well aware of year will complete the firm commitments by the serious drought that ravaged our State in the Commonwealth in this field. Of course the past decade. It is obvious that water con­ we need more, and requests have been sub­ servation, irrigation and improved stock and mitted for further funds to complete the domestic supplies are major weapons to reduce Bundaberg and Eton Irrigation Schemes and the effects of this hazard. T welcome the Clare Weir, and to commence further urgent opportunity to debate the Estimates of the works. Irrigation and Water Supply Commission for The Commonwealth has agreed to continue 1976-77 and to inform members of the Gov­ assistance for the water resources measure­ ernment's activity [n this field. The Govern­ ment and assessment programme for a fur­ ment has pursued a programme of assessment, ther three years. Since commencement of the investigation and development of our vital programme in 1964-65, grants totalling water resources. We have had regard to the $7,435,880 have been provided for this work. Supply [28 Oc'J'oBER 1976) (Estimates) 1313

MINERAL DEVELOPMENT to the company and the city for the balance of this century. The scheme cost some The continuing expansion of mineral de­ $30,350,000 and was financed by: velopment is an important aspect of the State's development. Water supply is a vital and Mount Isa Mines Limited $14,880,000 often key factor in such developments. To Mount Isa Water Board $4,200,000 ensure the most beneficial development of State Subsidy $5,970,000 works for this purpose, the commission arranges, wherever practical, that the works, Debenture loans raised by while financed by the companies in return the Commissioner and for an allocation of supply, be owned and Commonwealth loan (for controlled by the Crown. spare capacity) $5,300,000 Four storages now provide supply for eight This scheme is an example of the co-ordin­ mining developments, namely, Bedford Weir ation of development works and the co-oper­ (Utah, Thiess Bros. and Q.C.M. in the Black­ ation between the Government and private water area), Eungella Dam (Goonyell a, and statutory corporations. Peak Downs), Bingegang Weir (Saraji, Nor­ On 19 November we mark another sig­ wich Park), Julius Dam (Mount Isa Mines). nificant achievement in the completion of Work is continuing on the design of Spencer Glenlyon Dam, in the Stanthorpe/Texas Dam on Denison Creek, which is being fin­ area. The dam was designed by the Water anced by the companies proposing coal-min­ Resources Commission of New South Wales ing development, in the Nebo area. and constructed by the Irrigation and Water Supply Commission of Queensland on behalf WATER CONSERVATION AND IRRIGATION WORKS of the Dumaresq-Barwon Border Rivers Com­ mission. The cost of almost $17,000,000 During my term of some seven years as has been shared equally by the two States. Minister responsible for water resources, six This is the first major storage constructed dams and 15 weirs have been completed. under the provisions of the New South Wales­ In that period the storage available in the 14 Queensland Border Rivers Act. Queensland's dams and 63 weirs now in operation has share of half the stored water will stabilise increased by over 200 per cent to almost production in the Dumaresq Valley and allow 3 500 000 megalitres. The total volume of increased areas of irrigation by existing water held in the main storages for rural landholders. purposes reached a record level, in April 1976, of 3 434 000 megalitres, or 99 per cent of The first irrigators from the channel sys­ their total designed capacity, and early this tem in the major Bundaberg Irrigation month they held 90 per cent of capacity. Scheme received supply in September 1975. This is a very satisfactory position and pro­ Some 33 farms are now supplied, and by vides real protection for the benefited areas. the end of 1976-77 some 66 farms will be supplied, with a resultant benefit_ to. ~ sig­ In 1976-77, expenditure of $15,751,988 is nificant area of ground-water avmlabi!Ity. A provided in respect of 17 major projects. further $2,645,000 has been allocated in These include completion of the Julius and 1976-77 for the completion of the Burnett Glenlyon Dams, Bingegang and Baralaba River Barrage, continued development of Weirs, Burnett Barrage, Blackwater water­ the Gooburrum Distribution System and supply scheme and Pie Creek diversion works commencement of resumptions for the Woon­ (Mary Valley). garra System. By 30 June 1977 State expend­ iture on the distribution works will exceed Work will continue on the Monduran Dam $10 000,000. In addition, $1,200,000 of pump station and the Gin Gin main chan­ State funds has been provided to enable nel, Kinchant Dam, Clare Weir, development work to continue on the Monduran Dam of the Bundaberg, Emerald, St. George and pumping station and Gin Gin main channel Eton irrigation areas, diversion works from where the Commonwealth grant is exhaus­ the Callide Dam, and the design of the Spencer Dam on Denison Creek. A com­ ted. mencement will be made on Cania Dam In the Burdekin River Irrigation Area (near Monto) and the first weir in the Haugh­ $400,000 is allocated for works to serve ton River scheme near Giru. additional areas and on enlargement of works to meet increased irrigation demand. Seven As indicated earlier, Commonwealth grants irrigation areas are now established. Of for the Monduran Dam and Gin Gin Chan­ these, Mareeba-Dimbulah, Burdekin River, nel and Kinchant Dam (Eton Irrigation Scheme) were largely expended by 30 June St. George and Dawson Valley are fully operational. Emerald is substantially oper­ 1976. The Government has provided special ational, Bundaberg in its initial stages and allocations of $1,450,000 from State loan Eton under construction. Supply of water is funds to enable these works to continue. principally by channel reticulation and some It was a very significant occasion earlier 31 000 hectares were irrigated in 1975-76. this month when the Honourable the Prem­ Nine irrigation projects are in operation in ier and I participated in the ceremony to which water relea~ed from storages for private mark the completion of Julius Dam and the diversion irrigated an estimated 10 250 hec­ Mt. Isa water-supply scheme to ensure supply tares in 1975-76. 42 1314 Supply [28 OcToBER 1976] (Estimates)

In 1976-77, $2,501,000 is provided in the WATER RESOURCES ASSESSMENT revenue fund for the operation and mainten­ Underground water: An important aspect ance of the irrigation areas and projects. The of Queensland's water resources is the large area irrigated in the State as at March 1975 use made of underground water supplies as was 197 143 hectares. This represents 0.13 a source of supply for both urban and irri­ per cent of the total area of rural holdings in gation use. Some 130 cities and towns the State. However, the estimated gross throughout the State already obtain supplies value of irrigated production of some from this source. In 1974-75 over 55 per $250,000,000 is equal to some 20.44 per cent cent of the area irrigated utilised ground of the State's total rural production. Total water. commission cash investment on storages and irrigation areas at 30 June 1976 is almost Increasing attention is being given to these $204,000,000 compared with $84,300,000 at sources of supply, and already artificial 30 June 1969-seven years ago, when I recharge and conjunctive use of surface and became Minister. ground-water storage is being practised and will continue to be considered wherever prac­ ticable. The North Burdekin and South ACTIVITIES FOR OTHER BODIES Burdekin Water Boards in 1975-76 diverted 39 479 megalitres from unregulated flow in In December 1974 the Government decided the Burdekin River to articially recharge the that ministerial responsibility for "the underground supplies of the Burdekin Delta, administration and control of planning, design from which some 30 000 hectares of cane and construction of major dams for urban are irrigated and supplies for the towns of water supply purposes be vested in the Ayr and Home Hill are drawn. Minister for Water Resources". As a direct consequence, the commission has undertaken A major purpose of the Bundaberg Irri­ the supervision of construction of Deep Hole gation Project is to relieve the current short­ Creek Dam on Palm Lsland, estimated to age of ground-water supply by providing sur­ cost $1,700,000. The design was carried face supplies to up to 50 per cent of the out by the Department of Local Government area. This will enable landholders in the and funds are provided by the Department of balance of the area of ground-water avail­ Aboriginal and Islanders Advancement. Also, ability to continue using this source of supply. supervision of construction of A woonga High The first benefits in this regard will occur Dam is being carried out by the Irrigation in the current year and progressively expand. and Water Supply Commission on behalf of the Gladstone Area Water Board. Works currently in progress in the Callide Valley and those to commence in 1976-77 Prior to this decision the commission, on at Cania Dam near Monto and on the Giru behalf of the Townsville City Council, super­ Weir provide for the improvement of ground­ vised the construction of Ross River Dam water supplies. Stage I, which cost $11,400,000, and is now supervising the raising of the embank­ During 1975-76 the commission expended ment required for Stage 11 of the project. $691,926 on the investigation, assessment and Design of Ross River Dam was carried control of ground-water supplies. In the out by the Irrigation and Water Supply Com­ present year major investigations will be mission for Townsville City Council. Funds carried out in 10 areas, including Mossman, for this dam were provided by Townsville Herbert River, Haughton River, Bowen, City Council with State subsidy and Com­ Burdekin Delta, Mackay, Condamine Valley, monwealth grant. Darling Downs and Lockyer Valley. Pro­ vision has been made for expenditure in Honourable members may be assured that the current year of $705,300, of which 50 in taking over these additional responsibilities per cent will be financed by Commonwealth related to urban water supplies, both the grants. commissioner and I desire to ensure con­ tinuation of the harmonious relationship Work will also continue on the assessment developed between local authorities and the of supplies from the artesian basin and pro­ Government, and the commission will main­ vide data on which to base its further tain close co-operation with the Department exploitation and use. Owing to the high of Local Government in carrying out these losses from bore drains by seepage and responsibilities. evaporation in general, a licence for a new artesian bore requires that the flow be reticu­ The Co-ordinator General has delegated to lated by pipes to tanks and troughs con­ the commissioner powers and duties for the trolled by float valves. Work is currently resumption of lands for and the design and being finalised to replace the bore-drain construction of the Wivenhoe Dam on the system for the Pigurra Bore Water Trust, Brisbane River and Splityard Creek Dam, in the Blackall area, with a pipe-reticulation the storage for the associated pumped stor­ system. age/hydroelectric project. The commission is very pleased to play such a significant Present annual usage of artesian water role in this major project of such import­ is of the order of 313 000 megalitres, and ance to the whole of the Moreton Region. it is expected that this will stabilise to about The funds for this project are provided in the 216 000 megalitres in time to come, which Estimates of the Premier. is the assured annual recharge. Supply (28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates) 1315

Surface water: As with the ground-water FORWARD PLANNING assessment programme, the Commonwealth The commission has for some time con­ has since 1964-65 provided funds to enable sidered it necessary ·to make long-term the acceleration of a programme for the assessments of future water needs and how measurement of discharge of rivers. In the these might best be satisfied. With the past 12 years the Commission's network of commission now having responsibilities in stream-gauging stations has increased from respect of major dams for unban purposes, 230 (of which 98 were equipped with auto­ this has assumed greater importance in order matic recorders) to 577 station, 525 of them to ensure the best and most economic use of being equipped with automatic recorders. our limited water resources. I am pleased to These virtually cover the whole of the State report tbat to put this planning on a firm from the northernmost part of Cape York to basis a forward planning branch has b.een the southern border and west to the Northern established with the following pnme Territory border. Expenditure on this work objectives:- in 1975-76 exceeded $1,000,000 and $1,041,100, of which the Commonwealth To define and revi·ew the water resources provides 50 per cent, is allocated for the of the State. current year. To assess future demands for water for This work is particularly important for all ·purposes, including non-consumptive future accurate assessment of usable water uses such as the environment. resources in view of the large variation in flow from year to year. It has been calcu­ To make over-all river basin assessments lated that Queensland has some 40 per cent of the development and management of of the water resources of the Australian water resources within such basins to meet mainland, and this is a very valuable asset future needs. for the future development of the State. To update forward projections . of demand, possible developments, optiOns INVESTIGATION OF PROJECTS etc. on a regular basis. $488,800 is provided for investigation of water conservation and supply in areas FARM WATER SUPPLIES ASSISTANCE which include the Condamine, Mary and The Farm Water Supplies Assistance Act Fitzroy River basins, Bowen area, Mackay, implemented in 1958 to encourage and assist Moreton and Wide Bay/Bumett regions, as landholders to develop and improve water well as drainage schemes, rural water supply supplies for all purposes on individual hold­ schemes and farm dams. ings was amended in 1975 to include w~rks Consultants to the commissiOn have for drainage. In the past year 679 applica­ recently completed a report on the overview tions for assistance were received and study of drainage problems in the North advances totalling $880,996 made, bringing Queensland sugar areas at a cost of some total advances since inception of the scheme $71,000. The study examined aspects of to $10,773,021. Provision of $900,000 has local drainage in the area from Mossman been allocated for 1976-77. to Ingham. A review of flood rnHigation and riveT improvement problems in the northern sugar region is considered necessary DAM SAFETY AND SURVEILLANCE to obtain the complete picture of the indus­ A most important additional responsibility try's problems in the area. This further study undertaken by the commission, following is estimated to cost some $40,000, and funds amendment of the Water Act in May 1975, have been provided in the current year. is to provide controls and to undertake the inspection and continued surveillance of large dams as a means of preventing failure BURDEKIN RIVER BASIN APPRAISAL of such dams and to safeguard life and During 1975-76 all surface water resource property. As stated in the creservoirs and protection of the environment generally, areas adjacent .to 12 Hydrological studies were completed of storages, including the Wivenhoe Dam, have these eight sites, including the operation of been defined and constituted as catchment combinations of ~torages. Investigations to areas. The commission has continued to evaluate ground-water resources were com­ develop the surrounds of storages for the pleted. In general, pro~ects of supplies were use and enjoyment of the :public. It is not good, except in the Lower Burdekin area. estimated that some 930,000 persons visited The joint State-Commonwealth Burdekin the storages last year. To maintain the BasiR Study Report is planned for release facilities provided, $211,000 will be required in the current financial year. in the current year. 1316 Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976} (Estimates)

RURAL WATER SUPPUES The major problems of inflation facing the nation are having a serious effect on our Sixty bore-water supply areas established ability to maintain satisfactory construction many years ago continue to benefit some programmes and to plan adequately for the 1 780 000 ha in Western Queensland. In addi­ commencement of a number of schemes. tion 15 rural water supply areas provide stock The assistance we have received from the and domestic supplies to 613 rural holdings Commonwealth has enabled significant pro­ with a benefited area of 115 872 ha. Six of gress to be made. It is unfortunate that in these rural water supply areas have been con­ 1976-77 the Commonwealth has not been stituted in the past seven years. able to expand this. We are of course hope­ Provision has also been made for the ful that next year further grants will be enlargement of pipelines provided by mining ;made by the Commonwealth to enable companies to enable supply to properties en acceleration of schemes for water conserva­ route. Four such schemes are in operation, tion and use in the State. all having been implemented in my term of As this is the first time my department's administration. Estimates have been debated since the death of the former commrsswner, Mr. Fred STREAM CONTROL Haigh, M.B.E., I would like to place on record my appreciation of his contribution Stream management and control is of to this State's water resources. increasing importance and since 1969 a further six river improvement trusts have Fred Haigh was the driving force beind been constituted; one in South-east Queens­ water conservation in Queensland in the land, the others in areas between Proserpine post-war years and was recognised in his and Cairns. The Government provides a profession and in Australia as an expert in subsidy varying from 20 per cent to 33;\­ his field. He was the commission's third per cent of the capital cost of new works. and longest-serving commissioner, having held the position for 19 of the 27 years since STAFF AND ADMINISTRATION the commission was reconstituted in 1947. From 1937 to 1948, Mr. Haigh was an In the three years since the Estimates of engineer with the first Mildura Irrigation the commission were last debated (1973-74), Trust. He joined the commission as senior the staff has increased by 89, or 11 per cent, irrigation engineer in 1948, and in 1949 was to a total of 883 and we are providing for appointed deputy chief engineer, then this to increase to about 900 in the current assistant commissioner. He was appointed year. The commission has decentralised its commissioner in 1955. activities, and regional offices are located at Mareeba, Townsville, Rockhampton and In 1956, Mr. Haigh was appointed Member Toowoomba. Thirteen district offices and 12 of the Most Excellent Order of the British project offices are located throughout the Empire-Military Division. He became State. At 30 June 1976 some 365 officers, president of the Institution of Engineers, or 41 per cent of the total, were stationed Australia in 1970'--an honour not accorded at these centres. a Queenslander for almost two decades. The University of Queensland conferred an honorary degree of Master of Engineering REVENUE on him in 1971 for his long and valued Receipts for the year 1975-76 of $2,658,753 service to the university and to Queensland. were made up of $2,450,908 from operation During his term as commissioner, 13 dams of irrigation areas and projects, quarry and 17 weirs were completed. All the major materials royalties of $121,128 and $86,717 projects now under construction and many from miscellaneous activities. The surplus of approved in principle for commencement revenue over operation and maintenance costs when funds allow were initiated under his from irrigation areas and projects, excluding administration. interest, redemption and depreciation, was $542,807. Fred Haigh was one of Queensland's most efficient public servants, and I as Minister For 1976-77 it is estimated that operations fully appreciated his complete dedication and receipts will be of the order of $2,640,000. service to the State. A similar surplus of revenue over operation and maintenance costs is anticipated. I would also like to commend the present commissioner, Mr. Frank Learmonth, for the Honourable members must surely agree very capable manner in which he has car­ that we have provided and are continuing a ried out his duties since succeeding Mr. Haigh well-balanced programme of assessment and in 1974. Mr. Learmonth has earned a very investigation, the encouragement of private high professional reputation as an engineer investment by landholders for on-farm and has ably administered the affairs of the development and the provision of Govern­ commission. He served with the New South ment-financed irrigation areas and projects. Wales Department of Main Roads and the We have achieved a great deal; however, the Hydro-Electric Commission of Tasmania from many demands for works and services high­ 1938 to 1953. In October 1953, he was light that much is yet to be done. appointed senior engineer at Tinaroo Falls Supply [28 OcrQB~~ 1976] (Estimates) 1317

Dam-Queensland's first major irrigation I hope that the Irrigation and Water Supply storage. After completion of the Tinaroo Commission can continue to function Falls Dam in 1958, he was transferred to efficiently and to get on with the job as head office as senior engineer in charge of it has been doing. I was interested to read all major works. In 1960, he was appointed in the report that the expenditure of the chief construction engineer and as such was commission from all funds was $38,660,000. responsible for the planning and construction I think the Minister said that this year the of many major dams. He was appointed amount will be only about $35,700,000. That assistant commissioner, engineering, in 1969 cut-back is due to actions by the Federal and was chairman of the Queensland Division Government. I know that the Minister has of the Australian Institution of Engineers in done as much as he has been able to in the 1970-71. past year with the money available, but I do say that not enough is being done on Mr. Learmonth will retire on 31 December, and I take this opportunity to wish both him some schemes. and Mrs. Learmonth a long and happy Conservation of water has always been retirement. an integral part of Labor's developmen1al Mr. Learmonth will be succeeded as com­ policy on primary industry. Government missioner by the assistant commissioner, members say that Labor does not support engineering, Mr. Don Beattie. Mr. Beattie primary industry, but they know that Labor joined the commission in 1948 and, after in fact has always supported primary indus­ serving as district engineer at St. George and try. Conservation of water has been one of Charleville, was appointed to the irrigation our major policies. That statement can be proved by a comparison of the amounts of and rural water suoolv branch. HP he<'~me chief irrigation engineer in 1967 and assist­ money given for irrigation works by the ant commissioner, engineering, in 1974. He present Federal Government and by the pre­ was chairman of the Queensland Division vious Labor Government, of the Institution of Engineers in 1975 and Australia's water resources underline the is presently chairman of the Australian Nat­ growing interdependence of the city and the ional Commission on Irrigation and Drain­ country. The Ross River and Burdekin River age. Mr. Beattie has travelled widely projects are as vital to Townsville as they throughout Queensland and is well informed are to its hinterland. The Wivenhoe Dam is on all aspects of irrigation and drainage as vital to Brisbane as it is to the Brisbane throughout the State. Earlier this year he Valley. That can be said also of Bundaberg, travelled overseas to inspect the latest devel­ Mackay and Emerald and their surrounding opments in water conservation, and I con­ areas. All of these are major schemes. The gratulate him on his new appointment. Minister outlined what has been spent on I also take this opportunity to record my them and what is planned for their future. appreciation of the service rendered by the entire commission staff, professional or other­ The present Federal Government has not wise. In addition, I place on record my recognised their importance. It is a city­ appreciation to my own personal staff-my based Government. I do not think tha:t the secretary, Mrs. McLaren, the two girls in Country Party has enough force behind it my office, Esther and Karen, my press officer, to push the Federal Government into recog­ David Millar, and my driver, Bob Warner. n:sing the importance of irrigation and water Because I am a great believer in co-opera­ su;:ply in this country. It seems strange that tion, I think we act more as a team than a Federal Government of the same political as individuals, and I thank them for that. --olour as the Queensland Government gives •hi' State a worse deal than the previous T abor Government gave it. The Premier's Mr. JENSEN (Bundaberg) (12.28 p.m.): I in~bility to co-operate with anyone and his was very interested in the remarks of the -omplete control of the State Liberal Treas­ Minister. I know how important the Irriga­ urer-no matter who he might be-have tion and Water Supply Commission is to the lee! to a decline in the development of State of Queensland. I congratulate the Q"~ensland's water resources. Minister on what he has been doing desp:te the poor assistance given by the Federal Gov­ I shall now outline the Commonwealth ernment. .-rants for some Queensland projects in 1975- I support his remarks about the late Fred 76 8nd the allocations for 1967-77. In 1975- Haigh. I knew Fred very well. He did muc·~ 76 Stage I of the Ross River Dam was allo­ for the State. I know he was a driving fo•·,-e ,,~·ect $1.400,000 and the allocation for 1976- behind seeing that the Bundaberg irrigation 77 i, $1,560,000. For the Kinchant Dam at scheme got under way. Mackay the amounts are $2,000,000 and <: 0 14,000. The Bundaberg Irrigation Under­ I support his remarks about Mr. Le.'\r-­ ta';inp- was granted nothing in 1975-76 and, month, too. He was a worthy su~cessor :o .-f •Joe 5\4.400.000 that the Labor Government Mr. H8igh. On behalf of th~ 0p;Josilio·1, I allocated for the project in 1974, $11,000 was wish him well in his retirement, as well as not spent up to June last year. In addition, offering my congratulations to Mr. Beattie, ·- ~t',;nR has been granted for 1976-77. For who is soon to take over from Mr. Le8.r­ the <:lare We;r on the Burdekin River, the month. fi 0 "r"' for last year and the present year 43 1318 Supply (28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates)

arc $349,000 and $2,555,000. The totals are case was put forward to support the Bunda­ $6,250,000 for 1975-76 against $4,500,000 berg Irrigation Scheme, which is most import­ for 1976-77, a drop of over $2,000,000. ant to the sugar industry. The absence of conserved water in the area of the Kin­ What I have outlined indicates what the chant Dam not only affects farm incomes Minister for Water Resources has to put but reduces the efficiency of sugar mills in up with from a Government of his own pol­ the area. The dam will stabilise sugar pro­ itical colour. He and other State Ministers duction and provide for future expansion of condemned the Labor Federal Government the industry in line with market opportunities. for three years for not granting money and forecast what they would get if the Whitlam Water would be made available for inten­ Government was put out of office. Now, sive beef production on improved tropical every time a question is asked about the pastures. The recreational opportunties pro­ funds for this year, all of the Ministers get vided for tourists and the local community up and squeal. They are not getting the would also be of great value. At full money and they are still blaming the Whit­ development, the total additional sugar pro­ lam Government, which was in power for duction will be 46 000 tonnes a year, worth only three years. The present Federal Gov­ about $7,000,000. The cost to complete the ernment has been in office for nearly a Kinchant Dam is $9,200,000. In 1976-77, year and the Ministers continue to squeal. $814,000 of Commonwealth finance has been provided, and $400,000 from State funds Mr. Bertoni: WhaJt did the Labor Federal will be spent on the project in an attempt Gcvernment allocate to the Julius Dam pro­ to keep it moving. ject? There is a similar situation in respect of the Bundaberg Irrigation Scheme. It was Mr. JENSEN: I have not got onto that supposed to be completed in 1976, yet one yet. I shall deal with it later. I know another $7,000,000 is still needed to com­ what the State Government did. I supported plete it. Not a cent can be obtained for the honourable member in this Chamber to this purpose from the Federal Government, get him money for that scheme. That dam but the Minister for Water Resources has is most important to Mt. Isa. Considering allocated to it $1,200,000 from special funds. !hat MIM Ltd. put in about $14,000,000, it IS astounding that the Government would not Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: $1,400,000. provide some of the money. The Federal Government has cut by over Mr. JENSEN: The Minister has provided 50 per cent the funds for these capital works, $1,400,000 from his funds to keep that which provide hundreds of jobs. With the section of the dam in construction. He has money that is available the Minister has to done that because he knows the importance try to continue the work that is under wav. of the scheme. The Kinchant Dam is He has outlined the schemes that are in similarly important, but he cannot do much progress and the projects that he is looking on it with only $814,000. No more Com­ at. And the Federal Government has cut monwealth funds are forthcoming. If the funds by over 50 per cent in real terms. This State maintains its spending at the present is part of Mr. Fraser's new federalism which level, it will take 20 years to complete has been sold to the States. The result is that that dam. The Minister knows that the the channel works to enable the water from Bundaberg Irrigation Scheme is five years the dams to be used will remain half fin­ behind schedule at the present time, and ished. That applies also to the Bundaberg that at the present rate of progress it will and Mackay schemes and others. They are be another 20 years before the Kinchant half finished because the Federal Govern­ Dam is completed. Its final costs will thus ment will not give to the State the funds that be nothing like the present estimate. it should have. Other projects will be delayed I should like to refer now to what has for many years. · been said about some of these schemes in the In 1973, the Federal Labor Government commission's annual report. Expenditure on granted Queensland $5,000,000 over a three­ the whole of the Bundaberg Irrigation Scheme year period for the construction of the Kin­ for the year was, in round figures, $4,900,000, chant Dam, near Mackay. That dam is situ­ representing $2,500,000 from Commonwealth ated in a proven and established agricultural funds and $2,400,000 from State funds. The region in which there is significant scope for total expenditure to date on that scheme increased, efficient production. has been $24,900,000, being $17,200,000 from Commonwealth funds and $7,700,000 Mr. Elliott: But where did they take the from State funds. I notice that State funds money from? to be spent this year will increase the State's contribution to over $10,000,000 by June 1977. It is also said in the report that Mr. JENSEN: I ask the honourable mem­ approaches have been made to the Common­ ber to listen to me. This region has wealth Government. Of course, they have been plagued by recurring droughts, and the been of no help to the Minister. The Bun­ absence of conserved water has seriously daberg scheme is most viable, but it is still limited its stability and growth. A similar only one scheme. Supply [28 0croBBR 1976] (Estimates) 1319

The Commissioner of Irrigation and Water more viable than others, from which the Gov­ Supply says in his annual report to the ernment is likely to get a quicker return on Minister- its investment. The Minister should consider "The area irrigated throughout the State spending money on projects which will pro­ was 197 143 hectares. The value of pro­ vide the best return. I would say that the duction from this area of $250 million Bundaberg scheme is a very viable one, is equivalent to some 20 per cent of the as previous annual reports have stated, unlike value of all rural production which illus­ the Fitzroy scheme, which was a political trates the importance of irrigation in the scheme. It has cost some $35,000,000, and overall economy of the State." while the dam and some of the irrigation works have been completed, the entire pro­ That is a most significant statement, but the ject is not yet complete. All this money has Federal Government does not seem to realise been spent to irrigate a few little farms. I it. I think it is probably taking notice know it is probably in the Minister's elector­ of some of the experts whom the Whit­ ate and he had to look after it, but it was lam Government heeded in other spheres. initiated in an attempt to get a National Some of these supposedly expert economists Party candidate into Federal Parliament, said that irrigation does not pay and they something which did not eventuate at the tried to have Federal funds cut from such time, although it has since eventuated. projects. At least 20 per cent of Queensland's production is derived from irrigated areas. Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: Dr. Paterson approved The commissioner also stated in his annual that. report- "The overall storage capacity operated Mr. JENSEN: I do not know if Dr. Pater­ by the Commission now approximates son approved that. The Fitzroy scheme was 3 500 000 megalitres contained in 14 dams in operation before Dr. Paterson-- and 63 weirs." Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: The one you are talk­ He goes on to mention urban and industrial ing about is the Fairbairn scheme, and that water supplies, and reports that water from is not in my electorate. commission storages is supplied to three cities, 25 towns, one hydroelectric and three thermal generating stations. That indicates Mr. JENSEN: That scheme is not a viable the importance of the Irrigation and Water ~me, although money is still being spent on Supply Commission to cities as well as rural Jt, yet we see these delays in the Bundaberg areas. It does a most important job, as scheme where the farmers would use the water is outlined in the report. and the Government would get a decent re­ turn. The Government is not doin<> enou<>h Farm water supplies assistance, too, has although in the circumstances the Minister"' i~ increased. Last year farm water supplies doing his best. The Government is fiddlin<> assistance amounted to $881,000, and since its about with too many of these schemes. W~ inception a total of $10,773,000 has been want to get a move on and complete at advanced. Dur·ing the year the Julius Dam least some of them which will give us a and Baralaba Weir were completed, and it return. is pleasing to know that some schemes at least are being completed. I noted that during Mr. Aikens: You want to do Bundaberg his speech the Minister said that six dams first and leave the scraps for everybody else. and 15 weirs have been completed since he took over this portfolio. There are so many schemes at present under construction that I Mr. JEN§EN: That is correct. We should am very pleased to see that we do complete do first those that will be the most viable. We do not want to hold back Townsville, some. either. At present there are seven irrigation areas -Mareeba-Dimbulah, Burdekin River, St. Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: Who started the George, Emerald, Dawson Valley, Bundaberg Kinchant scheme? and £ton-established under the Irrigation Act. As I mentioned, total expenditure last Mr. JENSEN: I know Paterson started the year by the commission was $38,100,000. Kinchant scheme; the Minister is right about The principal expenditure item was that. He put $5,000,000 into it, but it is $24,800,000 on construction work, mainly one of the most important schemes in this dams, for which future Commonwealth funds State. I have the estimates here-- are not forthcoming. But what is most im­ portant is that total commission cash invest­ Mr. Elliott: The original estimate was ment on storages, irrigation areas and pro­ $5,040,000. jects to 30 June 1976 was $203,470,000, while receipts were only $2,450,000-in other words, a return of only 1 per cent. Mr. JENSEN: Don't give me that rubbish. That might have been the estimate for the With the shortage of funds today, I would dam, but not for the entjre scheme. The like the Minister to look at the returns from honomable member does not know what he different schemes, especially schemes that are is talking about. We should look at the cost p20 Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates)

escalations of some of these schemes. I Mr. JENSEN: The Minister can answer it )lave here questions asked of the Minister later if he wishes. by the honourable members for Townsville l!,nd Mackay. On Tuesday, 26 October the Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: The member for Isis honourable member for Belyando asked a might answer it, to save me answering it. question of the Minister about the Emerald Irrigation Scheme and what has still to be Mr. JENSEN: He can answer it. Let the spent on it. The Minister said- honourable member for Isis have a go at it; "Subject to adequate funds being avail­ I have said enough about it. I have helped able, it is anticipated that construction of the Minister along over a period of seven works on the eastern bank of the Nogoa years and got things moving. River will commence during 1977." But all these schemes are subject to adequate Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: I will give you a funds being available. hand in Bundaberg.

Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: What you have to Mr. JENSEN: Let us look at these schemes, remember is that the Emerald scheme was Mr. Miller. In part answer to a question completed before the Bundaberg dam was asked in this Chamber, the Minister gave the even started. following information- •'(!) Bundaberg Irrigation Project Mr. JENSEN: The dam was, yes, but, as I said, it should not have been started before (A) Additional costs Phase 1- Bundaberg, and the Minister knows it. It was $7,524,000. a political decision. Mr. Haigh gave number (B) Phase 2 Works-$49,920,000." one priority to Bundaberg, but the Federal Liberal-Country Party Government at that That has not even begun yet. It will never get going, with the Federal Government in time went ahead with the Emerald scheme, power at present, anyway. The answer con­ so the Minister should not bring that up. He knows that the Emerald scheme was poten­ tinues- tially not as viable as was the Bundaberg "(II) Les!ie Dam Stage 2-$4,350,000. scheme. (Ill) Burdekin Extension Scheme The Kinchant scheme will be viable event­ (A) Clare Weir and associated devel­ ually, but it will take 20 years to complete. opment-$10,657,000. The cost of water has increased already in (B) Urannah Dam and associated the Bundaberg scheme, and it will increase works-$52,300,000. further as costs escalate. If the Federal Government will not provide assistance, the (IV) Kinchant Dam-$9,175,000. Kinchant scheme will take 20 years to com­ plete with the funds that the State Govern­ (2) Construction is currently in hand ment can make available. on three of the rural water supply pro­ jects, namely, Bundaberg Irrigation Project Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: Who was the Min­ (Monduran Dam pumping station and Gin ister who got the Bundaberg scheme started? Gin main channel), Kinchant Dam and Claire Weir. Completion date on these projects will depend on finance available Mr. JENSEN: You; I do not doubt that. I in the years ahead. congratulated both Mr. Haigh and the Min­ ister on showing some common sense. But (3) The funds provided in the Com­ when a scheme is viable, the Government monwealth Government 1976-77 Budget should push ahead with it. Private industry for the Bundaberg project and Kinchant would move on it. The Bundaberg scheme Dam represent the balance of previously was supposed to be finished in 1976. We approved grants." will be lucky, Mr. Miller, if it is finished by 1980, yet the returns from that scheme are I have mentioned that, and the Minister has said to be satisfactory. said it already. Let me turn now to the escalation in costs Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: Do you know that on the Ross River Dam. In answer to Dr. the Commonwealth Government only gave Scott-Young, the Minister said- $5,000,000 over three years? "(1) When originally estimated in Decem­ Mr. JENSFN: It gave $4,400,000 in 1974. ber 1968, the costs for Ross River Dam The Government could have sp~nt it in one were:- year if it had been able to do so, but it (a) Stage 1-$7,790,000, admitted that it could not spend it in one (b) Stage 2-$4,620,000 (additional). year. Co,ts have in,·reased con .:derably since then. If the Government C

That shows the escalation in costs because Tinaroo scheme, for example, which spreads there have been too many schemes under way. water right throughout the Northern TabJe­ I know that the Minister is trying to assist l.ands area and is of tremendous value to in providing irrigation in all areas of the that part of the State; we can talk about the State; but if the Government continues to other areas of Queensland to which dams fiddle with too many schemes instead of fin­ contribute greatly to their economic viability ishing some of them and getting a return on -but the Bundaberg scheme is the first one its money, none of them will be completed of which an economic evaluation has been till about 1990. made. Mr. Aikens: According to you, we should The end of part 1, subsection 1 in the do Bundaberg first and let everyone else wait. "Summary of ResuHs of Economic Evalua­ tion" states- Mr. JENSEN: Not exactly; the most viable " ... indicates that a return of around scheme should be completed first. If the 6 per cent on capital investment might Bundaberg scheme is not the most viable the reasonably be expected from the scheme." Ross River scheme might be done first. ' That was based on a sugar-price assumption (Time expired.) of $90 a tonne. At the moment the price of sugar is slightly higher than that. In fact Mr. POWELL (Isis) (12.49 p.m.): The we hope it never gets as low as $90 a tonne electorate that I represent is probably as in today's economic climate. But taking the much in need of water for irrigation in low price of $90 a tonne for sugar, a 6 per agriculture as any other area of the State. cent return on capital can be expected to However, the situation is rather strange be realised from the Bundaberg Irrigation because areas at the northern end of the Isis Scheme. electorate badly need water, whereas the As the honourable member for Bundaberg central and southern areas of the electorate and the Minister said, the Fooeral Govern­ --cane-growing areas to the north and east ment has not been very generous in its grants of Maryborough-have plenty of water; in for expenditure on the scheme. fact, they are interested in having some of it drained away, as are areas in Far North The honourable :member for Bundaberg Queensland. attacked the present Federal Government in a way that I think was unfair and unwar­ I congratulate the Minister on the manner ranted. Prior to 1972 when there was a in which he introduced the Estimates. Like Liberal-Country Party Government in Can­ the honourable member for Bundaberg, I also berra $12,800,000 was advanced to the State congratulate the Minister's departmental offic­ for the building of the Monduran Dam and ers on the way they undertake their work. the irrigation scheme associ&ed with it. In In the South Kalkie area of the Bundaberg the three years we had a Federal Govern­ Irrigation Scheme and in a couple of other ment of the same political colour as the areas there is a little bit of opposition to honourable member for Bundaberg, that the commission. However, every time I have Government advanced only $4,400,000. The approached the commission on behalf of honourable member's criticism that since then people who have complaints, my representa­ very little money, if any, has been advanced tions have been met with the utmost court­ by the Federal Government is valid, but it esy and sympathy by the Minister and his must also be remembered that, since the senior officers, both in Bundaberg and in December 1975 election (when we ,thank­ Brisbane. The Minister deserves credit for fully made a change in Government in the way in which he leads his department. Canberra) until June this year, the Liberal­ As he indicated at the erid of his speech, Country Party Government has had to work he and his staff work as a team. That is under the Hayden Budget. Short of causing very evident from the advances in water an upheaval in Australian economics, we resources in this State. just had

While phase 2 is, for my electorate, the I wonder what is being done about stock­ vital part of the Bundaberg Irrigation Scheme, ing the dams with fish. Perhaps that is until such time as moneys are forthcoming a matter for the Fisheries Branch, but the from the Federal Government, I cannot see Irrigation and Water Supply Commission that the people of my electorate will benefit would have to co-operate. Our dams could greatly from the scheme at all. We need it; be used as a source of food as well as for it is essential. Most of the farms in the recreation in catching fish. In the dams we Childers and Isis areas are dry farms. As I would not have the trouble with trawlers indicated before, the record shows that we that we seem to have along the coastline experience a drought every 5.8 years, so it and certainly in my electorate. I hope that is quite likely that there will be a drought the department is giving serious consideration in the near future. I can assure the Minister to this matter. that the people in the area will be most upset if they are drought-stricken with a dam full With those few remarks, I should like once of water a few miles away that they cannot again to congratulate the Minister on the draw from. way he goes about his duties and to thank the officers of the department sincerely for their I say also that it will not be the fault of co-operation with me personally and with the State Government if that happens. Our the people of my electorate who have Federal friends have some answering to do. approached them and asked for various As I indicated before, I am quite sure that, matters to be attended to. The pleasant man­ as a result of the excellent representations ner with which they conduct themselves is being made to the Federal Treasurer by the member for Wide Bay (Mr. Clarrie Miller) appreciated. I look forward to further and the member for Capricornia (Mr. Col association with them. Carige), in the next Budget we can be confident of receiving money for this very Mr. AIKENS (Townsville South) (2.24 important project-one which will contribute p.m.): Politics being the grubby game that much towards the economy of this State. it is and party politics making it grubbier, it is not unusual for honourable members I am happy that the commission has gone to work the parish pump when dealing with ahead with a survey and investigation into a matter such as this. I do not suppose that the barrage that is proposed for the Mary they can be blamed for pushing the needs River. This also affects my electorate fairly of their own electorate or areas. extensively as the cane areas to the west of Maryborough need irrigation. I look for­ Very rarely, though, do we hear such ward to seeing the results of that investi­ an outburst as we heard from the honour­ gation. The converse is true of the north able member for Bundaberg this afternoon and east of Maryborough, where, as there when he said, "To hell with every other is basically too much water, a drainage area in the State. Let them all go and scheme will have to be undertaken. jump in the lake. Whatever money there In addition to the irrigation or conser­ is should be spent around Bundaberg" on vation aspect, dams can be used for recre­ some nebulous scheme that he has in mind ational purposes. The Monduran Dam is no for the conservation and distribution of water exception. Vast numbers of people visit it there. I have no objection to Bundaberg each week-end to water-ski in the comparative getting its fair share of any funds available safety of still water. One disadvantage I for water conservation or distribution; but have found at that dam is the inability of when we hear remarks such as those made some people to read. On a recent visit by the honourable member for Bundaberg, there I found so many cars parked right we begin to realise perhaps why it is that beside "No Parking" and "No Parking Any the A.L.P. has cast him into the outer Time" signs that it was almost impossible darkness. to manoeuvre the vehicle and boat-trailer to get it down the ramp to launch the Mr. Jensen: I have disturbed you. The boat. It is also interesting that one person truth always disturbs you. You never speak used the post of the "No Camping" sign the truth. When I speak it, it disturbs you. to attach one of the stays for a tent on the bank of the dam. I hope that there Mr. AIKENS: The honourable member will be some policing of these matters. There does not speak at all; be bleats. is certainly ample area at that dam to meet all needs. I can remember some Governments that looked ahead and planned wisely and widely. The Irrigation and Water Supply Commis­ The development that is taking place today sion is to be commended for its recognition in coal-mining in Queensland probably had of the recreation potential of all of the its genesis in the Powell Duffryn report dams in Queensland and for the landscaping brought down when 1he late Ned Ha:nlon that has been undertaken at most of them. was Premier, which was many years ago. Because of the landscaping these dams­ and I think of Tinaroo Dam and Leslie I know that the Irrigation and Water Dam-are beauty spots that can be enjoyed Supply Commission does quite a good job by people who live in outback areas away in keeping au fait with the water resources from the large bodies of water that we of Queensland and planning what should be on the coast are used to. done for their conservation and use. But I i324 Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates) really think it is about time

be almost bankrupt or at least closer to bank­ Mr. AIKENS: I do not agree with that. ruptcy than it is at the present time, so we Dr. Bradfield's scheme is one of those things must look ahead to the development of t~at look all right in ~heory but are not prac­ North Queensland on a broad scale and pro­ ticable. I was born m the West and I lived vide for it. and worked there. Dr. Bradfield's scheme Water being the lifeblood of commerce­ was to dam some of the northern rivers indeed, the lifeblood of mankind-we have and run the Water to the West by pipeline to see that we have abundant water in order ~:JVer the Great Dividing Range. How he to. provide for the development that we hope mtended to get the water over the Dividing Will eventuate. Up there we have goodness Range, I do not know. Then, having got knows how many rivers that can be dammed it over the Range to the headwaters of the including the Herbert, the Johnstone and th~ Flinders River and some of the other west­ Russell, just to mention a few. Not only does ern rivers, he was going to let it flow on every great North Queensland river flow out and on and be used for irrigation and many into the sea in times of flood and during the other purposes. Of course, in the dry wet season, but many of them are ever­ season the water would not run more than running streams. 20 miles before sinking into the ground. Honourable members have no idea of the . I was transfer_red from C!oncurry to Towns­ dryness of that particular area. vtlle by the Radway Department in 1930. I hope that the three, shall we say, somnolent I have studied the Bradfield scheme; I members. of the Opposition who are listening have discussed it and debated it on the public to me Will remember this. I was transferred platform with men who perhaps know as from <;:Joncurry to Townsville in 1930 by much about it as I do. As I said, the Brad­ ~he antl-A.L.P. Moore Government as a pun­ ~eld scheme is quite impracticable, although Ishment. for my activities on behalf of the It looks good in theory. It is like some A.L.P. m the Cloncurry district, so honour­ women that one sees-painted and coiffured, able member's can imagine how I must feel they look nice, but as women they are not and ~ow I have felt on more than one worth two bob. occaswn when I have seen come into this I have no figures available at the moment, Assembly members of the A.L.P. who scab­ Mr. Miller, although no doubt the Minister be~ ~n ~e when I was a prominent trade­ 'Whose Estimates are now being debated umomst m the Railway Department in the would be able to get them in a couple of Cloncurry and Townsville areas. minutes, but you would be absolutely aston­ One of the first pleasant things I experi­ ished to hear the quantity of water that flows enced there occurred when I worked a train into the Pacific Ocean from the coastal rivers from _To:vnsville to Tully. We got to Tully from, say, north of Rockhampton to Cape at midmght. Honourable members should York and into the Gulf of Carpentaria from remember that I had come from the dry the rivers on the western side of Cape York. weste~n areas, from the arid plains and spini­ Big rivers such as the Gilbert, Leichhardt, fex hills of North-west Queensland. We got Flinders and Cloncurry all flow into the Gulf to Tully and went to a little place that hap­ of Carpentaria. The quantity of water flow­ pened to be ~he railway quarters at the time. ing into the sea is absolutely incomprehens­ I woke. up m the morning, and there was ible to the ordinary man who does not know a be~utif~l fre~hwater stream, Banyan Creek, anything about the situation and does not runmng nght m front of the Tully quarters. have time to study it. Sooner or later a I~ runs. all the year round, but it is only a master plan must be drawn up for the con­ h!tle tnckle when compared with some of the servation of water in northern Queensland, ?Ig freshwater creeks and rivers that abound from Rockhampton up the coast to Cape 1~ North Queensland. They are to be found York and from Cape York right down the nght up the coast to Cape York Then on coast of the Gulf of Carpentaria to Arnhem th~ _western side of the Cape, hundred~ of Land. One has only to look at an ordinary m1lhons of gallons of water a day run into atlas to see the immensity of the area that the Gul~ of c;arpentaria from big rivers such would be covered. as the Emasleigh, Gilbert and Norman. The Burdekin is, of course, a great river, Alt~ough ! do not say that it should be and there have been many schemes for the done _Immediately, there is no reason why conservation of the water that comes down the planmng should not begin, just as the Powell Burdekin. There has been talk for quite a Duffryn . report began the planning for the number of years about the Burdekin Dam, explOitatiOn of the big coal deposits in and I have heard the desirability of that 9ueensland. If any future Government said, debated. I do not know how many meet­ Well, North Queensland is booming as ings-public and private-! have attended to many peop!e said it would, and we ~eed debate the possibilities of damming the Bur­ water for mdustry, for .domestic purposes dekin at the falls about 90 miles up river and for many other things" a basic pia~ from Ayr. I have known that scheme to be would be available for the development of blown to pieces by men who think they the great streams of North Queensland. know what they are talking about; I have known other men who think that such a Mr. Dean: What about Dr. Bradfield's dam would solve all their problems. How­ scheme? ever, let us be honest al:iout it, Mr. Miller. 1326 Supply [28 OcroBER 1976] (Estimates)

Although the Burdekin Dam has some good In days of stress such as w~ are exper­ points, I remind the Committee that the iencing now, there is not enough money for Burdekin has already been dammed and that every scheme, and instead of spending it the dams are being constructed nearer and all in Bundaberg, as the honourable mem­ nearer the coast. ber for Bundaberg would suggest, the best of the schemes should be picked out and the All the dams along the Burdekin River­ available money spent on them. But there the Urannah Dam, the Broken River Dam would be more money to spend if the Fraser and all ~he others-are serving a useful pur­ Government would do away with many of pose. Burdekin River water can't be taken the useless, political propaganda stunts that int0 the back country; Burdekin River water were embarked upon when the A.L.P. was can't be taken up to the North. Besides that, in office. Having said that, I again appeal to i.l would not be wanted in the North. Who the Minister to inquire into the water re­ would want to channel Burdekin River water sources of North Queensland. I know he will into the Herbert River area, the Johnstone not make a special job of it, and perhaps it River area, the Russell River area or to does not deserve a special S'tatus at the pres­ places around Tully? That would be abso­ ent time, but it should be kept in mind. Just lutely ridiculous. But there is a place in the as the Powell Duffryn report of the Hanlon development of North Queensland for a Government laid the foundations for our dam on the Burdekin River. present coal exports and coal prosperity, so also could a committee of a similar nature The honourable member for Bundaberg set up by the present Minister to inquire mentioned that the Wh~tlam Government intc the great water resources of North started off with some schemes-some of Queensland lay the foundations for perhaps them hare-brained schemes-for water con­ the most remarkable development that could versation and water development. The Whit­ occur in our lifetime. lam Government started off more scatter­ brained and hare-brained schemes than that. (Time expired.) Many of its schemes were purely political. I received an answer this morning to a ques­ Mr. ELLIOIT (Cunningham) (2.44 p.m.): tion about a conservation organisation in It gives me a great deal of pleasure to take Townsville. I suppose it might be said that part in the debate on these Estimates. I that Government set it up to investigate the congratulate the Minister and his department. conservation of water and other natural re­ In particular I should like to mention the sources, but it set up such organisations Minister's private secretary, Mrs. Margaret purely and simply as a political front for a McLaren, formerly Miss Margaret Cryan. It Whitlam A.L.P. half-baked Communist is often said that we are a lot of chauvinist show. That organisa:tion in Townsville is people in Queensland. This is a very good still carrying on as it was set up by Whitlam. example of a girl holding down a top job and doing it as well as any of her male One of my big beefs against the present counterparts in other departments. I place Fraser Government is that it is carrying on record how much we appreciate the work on with organisations and schemes that were that Margaret has done for the department, set up by the Whitlam Government purely for the Minister and for members generally. and simply for the most putrid political pur­ She goes to tremendous pains, even in her poses. I do not know why the Fraser Gov­ own time, to chase up things for us, and ernment does not do anything about it. We we do appreciate it very much. know why it cannot sack AI Grassby-he has himself tied up by agreement so that Whilst I would support the honourable he cannot be sacked any more than the member for Isis in his efforts to do some­ Government can sack Arthur Creedy. But thing for his electorate, I point out to him they are only individual cases. We have big that the Bureau of Agricultural Economics organisations set up by the Whitlam Gov­ has presented reports on other irrigation pro­ ernment that can't be disbanded unless the jects of equal importance. Fraser Governmen1 gets on with the job and The bureau conducted a survey of Stage gets rids of all the dead wood, just as it II of the Leslie Dam as part of the Upper should get rid of all the dead wood in the Condamine Irrigation Scheme. In monetary universities and various other places. terms it is probably one of the most import­ ant and practical irrigation projects in I do not know that the Whiotlam Govern­ Queensland. The survey revealed that the ment ever set up any organisation, committee actual net return on capital required to or instrumentality that had for its purpose or finalise the project would be very high, of objective the examination of all the resources the order of 9.7 per cent. That compares of any par;[ of Queensland, particularly North favourably with the bond rate of 9.5 per Queensland, that could be used for the benefit cent, and furthermore, it is based on con­ of that part of the State in the future. We servative grain prices. If the grain world have had the Premier criticising the Fraser parity prices used for the purposes of the Government for its open-handed generosity survey were increased by 20 per cent, the towards everybody else. I agree with the return on capital would rise to 13.5 per cent. Premier. I do not always agree with him, but Very few rural businesses would achieve I agree with him on this matter. results as good as that. Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates) 1327

In the construction of the Leslie Dam, pro­ been invested in the Condarnine River basin, vision was made for its enlargement in what it will be realised that not only can they not is termed Stage II. A sound case can be afford to see their investment go down the made out for the provision of finance to drain but also we as a State cannot afford Stage II, based on the existence of the dam, to allow that tremendous involvement by the the ability to proceed with the scheme at rel­ landholders and the Irrigation Commission to atively low cost and, what is of utmost im­ go down the drain. portance, the availability of means by which water can be directed from the Condamine I stress, therefore, that the Government River to the irrigators. must seriously look at the over-all situation. From all I can read, it is my belief that the In the Condamine River basin a serious artificial recharge ,in this area, because of problem has arisen in relation to insufficient its unique silt properties, is encountering a underground water supplies. The aquifers great deal of difficulty. I do not believe that are not recharging at the rate at which water at this stage we can claim a significant degree is pumped from them. This serious situation, of success in recharging the aquifers. Work of course, pertains not only in the Cunning­ is continuing on it. More research must be ham and Warwick electorates and the Dar­ carried out. However, the results to date are ling Downs but throughout the State as a not encouraging. whole. I congratulate the member for Mt. Isa for A map of Queensland's soil resources will the work he has put into pressuring everyone show that the area that has the greatest involved in the Julius Dam project. It is my potential for the cultivation of grain in Aus­ belief that that is one of the most forward­ tralia, let alone in Queensland, and the one thinking plans to have been implemented for that has ready access to ports and markets some time. It will put Mt. Isa's water is the Darling Downs. The importance of resources on the map. The honourable Stage II of the Leslie Dam cannot be stressed member has done a tremendous amount of too highly. We should do all in our power work on it. to ensure that the natural underground water supplies in the Condamine River basin are I wish to refer to some of the other not depleted. projects that have been mentioned by other speakers. Unfortunately the cost originally I believe, too, that the landholders must be projected for the Kinchant Dam was exceeded prepared to play their part in this programme. many times over. That has caused tremend­ We have seen evidence of that in many ous problems for all the other projects in instances where they have shown initiative by Queensland. taking advantage of some of the tax-deduct­ ibility incentives that were formerly available. I should like to go on record as saying Many off-stream storages, as they are called that we appreciate the assistance that we in that area, have been built. Water is have received from the Commonwealth. It pumped out of the Condamine, its tributaries is very easy to continually knock the Com­ or flood channels, and stored for dry times. monwealth Government and say that it is not giving us this or that. If it were not I was interested to hear the member for for the efforts of the Federal member for Isis make the point that as a State we have Darling Downs (Mr. Tom McVeigh) Stage a drought factor of a very considerable II of the Leslie Dam would not be as far magnitude. We are probably one of the advanced as it is. The Bureau of Agricul­ driest continents on earth. I have always tural Economics report on the dam, I believe, believed that water is like money in the was pushed to a great extent by him and bank. If we allow one single drop of it to he should be given considerable credit for run away unused, we have lost money-the the result. same as if money were lost from the bank. Water is one of the nation's key problems. I shall conclude my speech at this stage to We must do all we can to conserve it when­ allow time for the many other speakers ever possible. I reiterate that water conserva­ to debate these Estimates as they apply to tion is a serious problem for the Darling their areas. Downs and for the Condamine basin in particular. Dr. SCOTT-YOUNG (Townsville) (2.56 p.m.): Because of the value of water to What we are proposing-and I know that Australia and especially to North Queens­ the Minister and his department are aware land, I am rather intrigued that these Esti­ of it and are showing considerable initiative mates have not been debated for some time. in this area-is that meters be placed on bores to ensure that people do not pump As other honourable members have said, more than a reasonable amount. Where North Queensland has a very heavy rain­ possible, flood run-off water should be used fall with a very heavy run-off and very to supplement our underground water few natural storage areas. Certain areas reserves. If that is not done, within the life­ do have large reserves of underground water time of many of the farmers who initiated which have been tapped successfully by much of the irrigation area, they will be farmers. In recent years, this project has faced with the real problem of running out been controlled by the Irrigation and Water of water. In view of the capital that has Supply Commission. [28 Ocro:BER 1976] (Estimates)

Over a period of years the Commonwealth the water level is even higher than when Government has not been very generous in pumping first started. A considerable amount granting money to any of the States, especi­ of thought should be directed to the under­ ally Queensland, for water conservation. I ground water supplies of this State. gather from the Minister's speech that since 1967-68 the grants to Queensland under the There have always been problems with National Resources Development Program water in the Townsville area. At the time of have amounted to $45,700,000 which is really the Water Authorities Act of 1891 there a smalJ drop in the ocean. In 1968, the plan were bores down in the bed of the Ross provided for $100,000,000 to be granted River and its banks from which a consider­ to Queensland under that programme. able amount of very good water was obtained. That Act was supplemented by the Towns­ In comparison with the amount of Com­ ville Water Authority (Waterworks Approval) monwealth money provided for welfare work Act in 1926, which Act was itself amended -and particularly in the past three years the in 1934. Under the 1926 Act, a weir was sums poured into projects such as the Wom­ first put across Ross River and called a en's Electoral Lobby and various art and waterworks. The weir, in association with development groups-the amount made avail­ various wells, supplied the city until the dam able to the Queensland department for conser­ was put in at Mt. Paluma and water was vation of water is very smalJ. We need reticulated from Mt. Spec. more money and I consider that our Ministers and public servants should lobby much more This supply, too, proved inadequate. In strongly in Canberra and not, as they have in the Townsville area, all estimates have been the past, take no for an answer. In too many short of the position that eventualJy came cases we have sat back and taken things too about. It was estimated that in 1974 Towns­ easily. ville would have a population of 80,000, an annual demand of 17,800 acre-feet, a We must undertake long-distance and daily average demand of 13,300,000 gallons careful economic planning because the return and a daily average per-capita gallonage of from irrigation and water conservation 166.5. The estimate of the population in schemes is not seen in the immediate future; 1980 was 95,000. Statistics reveal that the those are long-range ventures and the bene­ population now is 85,000. All estimates of fit will not be noticed for many years to population and water requirements in Towns­ come-possibly generations to come. The ville have therefore been short of the target. people in those days will probably say, "Old grand-dad, or the Minister for Resources It must always be kept in mind that in 1967, was not too bad. He had great neither populations nor water requirements foresight in planning these very sound increase in an orderly manner. It is always economic projects." better to keep a credit up one's sleeve when making estimates of population and water One aspect of water supply that intrigues requirements. In a paper presented to the me is underground supplies. According to water committee by the Townsville City the Minister, 130 cities are supplied with Council in April 1971, this appears in the water from underground water supplies notes on the extent of present resources- replenished by aquifers. In addition, about 55 per cent of our irrigation comes from under­ "Stage I of the Ross River Dam, Crystal ground water. I do not think that all the Creek and Paluma Dam will guarantee a answers are known yet and the department daily average supply of 20,000,000 gallons should spend a considerable amount of per day. This means that Stage II of money in researching this subject to learn the dam will be required about 1982." more. From my reading, I consider there Actually Stage II is required now. Only is quite a large gap in the knowledge of last week we had water restrictions in underground water sources and their Townsville. If we hope to attract further recharging. industry to Townsville we will need more At one stage the Townsville City Council water. At the moment there are hopes that thought that it would be able to finance the Mount Isa Mines will go ahead with its Ross River Dam through the nickel treatment zinc smelter, and if we are to attract more plant at Yabulu. While the city council was heavy industry, we will need more water carrying out studies in conjunction with the again. But I would advise that an attempt be Irrigation and Water Supply Commission on made to rapidly finalise Stage II of the dam the feasibility of the Ross River Dam, the and obtain money for the further works that commission was doing its own feasibility are necessary. A lot of people think that studies and dropping bores in the Bluewater the dam is complete, or will be once the walls of Stage II are completed; but about area. They struck liquid gold in no uncertain $11,000,000 will be required after the dam manner, with the result that the Greenvale itself is completed for rerouting of railways nickel project has become completely self­ and roadways, the acquisition of land and supporting. It is quite independent of the the preservation of run-off areas. Ross River Dam project. Since 1974 approxi­ mately 11,600 million litres a day have been Whilst I am talking about run-off areas, taken out. It is interesting to note that those I would urge the Minister and his officers water reserves do not seem to have been at to think very hard about the use of catch­ all depleted. In fact, at some of the pumps ment and storage areas. We have seen an Suppfy [2S OCTOBER 1976] (Estint4tes) 1329 indis<;riminate use of these water-ways for sources. That is very good forward planning aquaplaning, water-skiing and various other and shows that the department has a very fast-moving water sports. Considerable dam­ open mind on the subject of water conserva­ age can be caused to the banks once tion. I congratulate the Minister and his people start aquaplaning behind fast-moving officers. motor-boats, as we saw on the Nepean River in New South Wales. There the banks caved Mr. HALES (Ipswich West) (3.10 p.m.): I in; there was silting up; the channels were wish to speak first about the catchment areas interfered with and considerable damage was in South-east Queensland as they affect the done in that the over-all depth of the water residents of Ipswich and surrounding areas. was definitely altered. It is common knowledge, of course, that We also face pollution problems, which there are three dams in South-east Queens­ can be very serious. We have seen outbreaks land-the Moogerah Dam, the Atkinson Dam, of hepatitis, which I assure honourable and the Somerset Dam-and I wish to refer members can be a very serious disease. A particularly to the acquatic sports on these man can contract hepatitis and seemingly dams. In our present affluent society, sporting get over it, then die from the residual effects activities on these dams have increased sub­ of the disease with cirrhosis of the liver. I stantially in the summer months. Having in would advise members never to take hepa­ mind the safety of the people concerned, I titis lightly because it is a dangerous disease. think it might be prudent for the Minister, It is a disease that can be spread through either now or in the near future, to consider out waterways if they are polluted. declaring one of the dams an area for sailing only. People can also contract amoebic dysentery from our waterways, and there have been I have visited all three dams, and it examples of this on Palm Island. I notice appears to me that the number of sailing that the commission is going ahead with the boats on them is increasing almost daily. In construction of a new dam on Palm Island, my opinion, if one of them were set aside and I congratulate it for that. I understand for sailing only, the safety of people using that the construction is to cost $1,700,000. sailing boats would be improved. Many The original dam at Palm Island had been people like flying on kites towed by power fouled by the local inhabitants, a large pro­ boats. These boats, of course, move very portion of whom suffer from amoebic dysen­ quickly across the water, while sailing boats tery. I treated three nurses on Palm Island move only as fast as the wind allows them for amoebic liver abscesses, which can be to move. When boats of such differing types fatal if not detected. A special order was are used in the same area, it seems to me issued to all nurses going to Palm Island that that sailing enthusiasts are at some disadvan­ they had to have their stools examined be­ tage. Therefore, when the Wivenhoe Dam cause of the high incidence of amoebic dys­ ha3 been completed, perhaps the Minister entery caused by the fouling of the island's might consider declaring one of the four water supply. This could happen in any dams in South-east Queensland an area for waterway, especially if it is used for recreation sailing only, having in mind the safety such as water sports. Water-catchment and factor. storage areas should not be used for sport I appreciate, too, that the Minister's depart­ and recreation. ment has provided many park areas around I congratulate the Minister on the over-all the dams, and they are extremely well cared management of his department. His officers for. have always been extremely open-minded in In the main, the Atkinson Dam and the their outlook. I would like to comment on Moogerah Dam are used for irrigation. How­ the reporting of the ideas of his officers in ever, the Somerset Dam supplies water to the Press. In some cases this has enabled Ipswich and the Brisbane metropolitan area. a lot of people to stop worrying about a In Ipswich, the water is used mainly for problem. I refer particularly to an inter­ domestic purposes, but at the Wulkuraka view with Mr. Haigh reported in the "Towns­ Industrial Estate there is a major user of ville Daily Bulletin" of 25 June 1973, where water-Kinnane's chicken abattoir. It fills he said that he considered all the projects the sewerage line going round the river to put up to him were worth while but that the Tivoli treatment plant, and it appears the Bundaberg scheme had first priority and that no other industrial manufacturer can that the Urannah Dam would probably come establish an industry on that estate. It seems second to that. He had arrived at this decis­ rather a shame that the sewerage line round ion after a great many facts had been put the river is, as someone from the Ipswich before him. One that he referred to was most City Council told me, chock-a-block and not interesting. It was said that the population capable of carrying any more sewerage, and of Townsville could increase to 300,000 if I suggest that the Government mio:ht consider the waters of Mt. Spec, Ross River and the assisting the Ipswich City Councif to provide Urannah Dam were utilised. The idea of a bigger line between \Vulkuraka and the Townsville with a population of 300,000 Tivoli treatment plant. rather beggars the imagination. However, the officers of the department have worked Mention is mi\de in the anmn1 rPpnrt of that out and are quite sure that the ne~es­ flood-mitigatiO'I work in the Brisb<1ne River sary water can be supplied from those three catchment area, and investiga'ions a' Jng the 1330 Supply [28 OcroBER 1976] (Estimates)

Bremer River are also referred to. As the Mr. WRIGHT (Rockhampton) (3.21 p.m.): thrust of the investigations seems to be on I enter this debate to raise an environmental the Brisbane River, I ask the Government to issue that would not have arisen if the consider the erection of some type of barrage Commissioner for Irrigation and Water on the Bremer River to relieve the flood Supply had carried out a thorough investiga­ problem in Ipswich. I understand that through tion as he should have done. I refer to the the officers of the Ipswich City Council, Cooloola National Park and specifically to the police and the State Emergency Service Tewah Creek as well as to the decision to there is a system whereby the actual height allow substantial interference to the flow of of the flooding can be predicted as the water water in that creek, in total conflict with comes downstream, but that does not stop the concept of a national park. Such inter­ the flood or mitigate it in any way. It ference would, I believe, have given rise merely means that a prediction can be given to substantial opposition from the National so that people downstream will know how Parks Section of the Forestry Department much water is coming down. as well as from the general public if they had been aware of what occurred. The Deputy City Engineer (Bob Gamble) At the outset I say I do not intend to has an excellent system working whereby level total blame at either the Minister or he can accurately predict levels downstream the commissioner, for I realise that it was within two or three centimetres. Although the Governor in Council which authorised the warning system is there, flood mitigation the Widgee Shire Council to draw water is just not on at the moment. It would from Tewah Creek and Seary's Creek. Never­ appear that the department is channelling theless, the Minister and the commissioner its main efforts towards flood mitigation are involved; questions must be asked and around the Brisbane River and Moggill Creek, answers must be given. but it would not hurt the department to spend more time in the areas around the This issue goes back to 15 March 1967, Bremer River. The report indicates the when a group of people trading as Bayside possible construction of weirs at two or three Cattle Company acquired special lease different places. S.L. 30851 of about 2,340 acres of land known as portion 65, Parish of Toolara, The Lockyer Valley in your area, Mr. County of March. Gunn, has become the salad bowl of South­ east Queensland. The production of food On 11 January 1973, S.L. 30851 was free­ from that area is worth millions of dollars. holded and became Special Lease Purchase I should hate to think of anything going Freehold 306. The area of the freehold wrong with the underground water supply was 2,197 acres 1 rood. The cost-I would in that area. Some years ago the department ask honourable members to note this care­ erected a couple of recharge weirs on Flag­ fully-was $43,945. stone Creek and Lockyer Creek, which have By contract dated 14 February 1973, been a great success. We have had many barely one month later, the Bayside Cattle years of good weather, but without doubt in Company sold S.L. Purchase Freehold 306, the years ahead we will have another long comprising 2,197 acres 1 rood, together with drought. I understand Lennox Walker has S.L. 32818, 32819 and 32820, comprising in predicted a drought of almost eight years all 15 acres, and portion 1 comprising 7 between 1983 and 1991. Sometimes his pre­ acres 3 roods 3.1 perches-a total area of dictions are wrong but more often than not 2,220 acres 9 roods 3.1 perches-to Dubi­ they are right, and if he is right we have tante Pty. Ltd., whose address was c/­ only a few years in which to construct Morris, Fletcher & Cross, Solicitors, Bris­ recharge weirs in that area so that the bane. underground water of the Lockyer Valley will be maintained. At the time of that sale the members of the Bayside Cattle Company were William We all realise the amount of food that Nils Buchanan, Stanley Edwin Cox, Geoffrey comes out of that area to feed people in Charles Sykes, Merwyn Alfred Sanders, many parts of the State. The area is noted Thomas Henry Sanders, Edwin Lumley for its potatoes, carrots, peas and beans. Henzell, Donald Waiter Clarkson, William If the department could build a few recharge Edward Stephen Gambling, Donald Edward weirs in that area, the effects of the drought Gambling, Margaret Shirley Bishop, Jill which will most certainly come in the years Byrne Johnston, David Bruce Nimmo and ahead would be cushioned. Clement William Bailey Renouf. It is worth noting that at that time William It is not usual for metropolitan members Nils Buchanan was chairman of the Widgee to discuss these Estimates, but I have done Shire Council, the local authority controlling so to congratulate the Minister's secretary, the area, and Donald Waiter Clarkson was whom I know, and his staff on the excellent the shire engineer. job that they do. I also congratulate the Minister, of course, on his able handling Now the point that I raise: the purchase of this portfolio. He is certainly a competent price paid for the land and improvements Minister. was $246,000. In January the land was free- Supply (28 0croBER 1976] (Estimates) 1331 holded for $43,945 and barely one month I have always thought that there was a later it was sold for $246,000. But the role for local authorities to play and a role story goes on. By a contract dated 29 June also for the Irrigation and Water Supply 1973, three months later, Dubitante Pty. Ltd. Commissioner to play. I want to know­ sold all the land and improvements to Crest and I believe we must know-exactly what Projects Pty Ltd. for $443,800. The date of has taken place and what type of investiga­ possession is shown on that contract as tion was carried out by the Irrigation and 30 June 1974 and it was a cash sale. Water Supply Commission in relation to this. Mr. Lowes: The cost of freeholding would be included in that. Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: We would be com­ mitted to certifying that water was available. Mr. WRIGHT: I made the point that the Mr. WRIGHT: I take the Minister's point cost of freeholding was included; but one still but I do not think that is satisfactory. If needs to distinguish between the freeholding we are going to protect national parks and price and the final purchase prices. ensure that all types of activity are not tak­ I accept that it was by Order in Council ing place on the water-ways of these national that the Widgee Shire Council received auth­ parks, then the Commission has a responsi­ ority to draw water from Seary's Creek and bility-in its own right, if not on behalf of Tewah Creek. However, I return to the the Government as a whole. It was not so conflict of interests that must have existed long ago-1972, I think-that the Premier when the chairman and engineer of a shire made a tremendous statement on how the can be involved in a company that freeholds Government was keen to protect the envir­ land and in a council that is going to make onment. He set down guide-lines in a very, very important decisions on whether manual, and he made some comments in or not water can be drawn from a certain the foreword to it. creek. The story goes that land develop­ The role of Government is an important ments were taking place. This land develop­ one. When it comes to water-ways, surely ment is a very valuable enterprise. The land that responsibility devolves upon the Irriga­ is worth a lot of money. tion and Water Supply Commission. We Mr. Goleby: Anybody else could have done need to know also what interest the former that. shire chairman and the shire engineer had in the success of the venture. We need to Mr. WRIGHT: I am glad to see that the know, too, who were the members of honourable member for Redlands is support­ Dubitante Pty. Ltd. Did the shire engineer ing this. He might answer by telling us and the former shire chairman or anyone what his involvement was. else assure Crest Projects Ltd. that it would be guaranteed approval for a subdivisional Mr. Goleby: You would be entitled to do scheme and a water supply for the develop­ the same thing. ment? What part did they play in this? The whole project was able to go on because Mr. WRIGHT: I wonder. I wonder if a that approval was forthcoming. The recom­ shire chairman or a shire engineer should mendation came from the council when the be involved in decision-making processes application was made. from which they will gain financially. If the honourable member believes that they Mr. Ahern: Who is chairman of the Widgee should, then I suggest that he rethink his role Shire now? as a member of Parliament. Mr. WRIGHT: I do have the name some­ I go on further and state that it was the where here, but that is immaterial. Mr. council that made the total land development Buchanan is no longer the chairman of the possible. Had that water not been able to shire, but he was the chairman at the time be obtained from Tewah Creek, the land this took place. development would have had very little I call for the tabling of the application potential. The decision made by Order in made by the Widgee Shire Council under Council was the result of an application by section 32 (14) of the Local Government the Widgee Shire, the chairman of which, as Act to take water from Tewah Creek. I I stated, was a member of the company that call also for the tabling of the recommenda­ made a massive profit out of the resale of tion of the Commissioner of Irrigation and the land. Water Supply. I believe an open inquiry into I have always thought that on environ­ the matter is required, because a lot of mental matters we should have all types of money is involved and I suggest that there is studies carried out; that we should in fact a conflict of interests. Finally, I say that be ensuring that some type of environmental the whole issue smells and I believe that, impact statement or study is carried out. as the Minister is in charge of this port­ folio, he has a responsibility to clear the Mr. Lowes interjected. air completely. Mr. WRIGHT: Let me go on. The hon­ Mr. McKECHNIE (Carnarvon) (3.30 p.m.): ourable member can make his speech and I In rising to speak to these Estimates, I will make mine. congratulate the Minister and the Irrigation 1332 Supply [28 OCI'OBER 1976] (Estimates)

and Water Supply Commission for the able electorate that will go a long way towards way in which, over the past 12 months and doing something for decentralisation in that during previous years as well, they have area. administered the matters covered by this portfolio. Mr. Houston: How much money has your Government provided for housing the people I note a ministerial Press release to the out there who want their own home or effect that the commissioner will be retiring want to rent one? later this year. I wish him well in his retirement and thank him for what he has done for the people of Queensland. I also Mr. McKECHNIE: The honourable mem­ congratulate Mr. Beattie, who has been named ber for Bulimba likes to try to blame this as Mr. Learmonth's successor. I am sure Government for all the ills in Australia today. that he will fill that office capably and It is a great shame that he did not stand up well. and criticise the previous Federal Govern­ ment, headed by Gough Whitlam, when it Whilst I congratulate these officers on the was following a path of economic madness work they have done, I still say that there that ruined any chances .that this country is a feeling in the Government the com­ had of an early economic recovery. missioner has too much power. Although we are very happy with the existing officers, Mr. Houston: Your crowd were going to I hope that the Minister will amend the fix it up in six months. You said that if Act so that we can be assured that in Fraser was elected he would fix it up in future the Minister will have more power six months. as of right and not because of the good will of the commissioner. Mr. McKECHNIE: That interjection is One of the most exciting prospects in typical of the misrepresentation of the my electorate at the moment is the opening Labor Party. I made it clear in all the in the near future of the Glenlyon Dam. speeches that I made in my electorate during It will do much to stabilise the population the last Federal election campaign that it of the Texas and Goondiwindi areas and would take a Liberal-National Country Party will increase production there substantially. Government at least three years to fix things Therefore there is a fair chance that as up. That is what leaders of the present a result of the dam the population of those Government parties said. They said that the areas will increase. economy could not be made to recover Coolmunda Dam on Macintyre Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates) 1333

Brook. There are 76 licensees drawing water fair share of water from the border rivers, from this dam, and 132 pumps. Last year but there are only 198 current licence holders 3 012 megalitres were divel'ted and 1 481 in New South Wales while there are 434 hectares were irrigated. It is interesting to in Queensland, This makes one realise why note that the capacity of the Coolmunda New South Wales irrigators tend to be Dam is approximately 75 000 megaHtres. getting so much water. The reason is that This dam is not being used to anywhere near there are fewer of them, and that in New its full capacity. This is rather sad because South Wales the companies and individuals it was built .to stabilise the population in using irrigation tend to operate on a larger the Inglewood area. It has not been quite scale. In Queensland we have managed to as helpful as some of us had hoped. The allocate the water to a greater number of reason for .this is the rural depression; it is people. I think it is good that the total of no fault of the Irrigation and Water Supply people getting the benefit of water available Commission. But we must go ahead with under the border rivers agreement is greater the construction of dams whilst looking to in Queensland than in New South Wales. the day when irrigation will be much more profitable in Queensland than it is now. There has been much criticism of the Federal Government for reducing funds for As I said before, I am confident that the irrigation, and I also am very disappeinted Glenlyon Dam will play a major part in that more money is not coming from Com­ stabilising the population of the area, but monwealth sources. However, as I said this is not going to happen overnight, just earlier, the Federal Government inherited a as it did not happen overnight with the very serious financial problem and, obviously, Coolmunda Dam. This Government and cuts had to be made somewhere. The Oppo­ other Governments must adopt policies which sition in this Chamber loves to criticise the will encourage the economic production of present Federal Government when it is primary products. So many countries of unable to provide additional money for the world have a low standard of living that various projects. It must be understood that we cannot afford to live in a country that the Liberal-National Country Party Govern­ does not make full use of its agricultural ment had an economic mess of huge resources. proportions to sort out. Major crops irrigated from the Coolmunda Mr. Houston: What about the 18 years Dam are tobacco, lucerne, soya beans and before? Liberal-Country Party Governments navy beans. There is an interest in other did nothing. You are a mob of whingers. crops such as green beans, grain sorghum and other grains. The pecan nut is being The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. established in the area and early indications Gunn): Order! are that it will be most successful. Speaking of the tobacco industry, I think the common­ Mr. McKECHNIE: I will take the honour­ sense approach is that if people choose to able member's interjection, Mr. Gunn. He smoke they might as well smoke Australian speaks about the previous 18 years. During tobacco rather than imported tobacco. I those years Australia was on a fairly sound think it would be a great help to the com­ financial path, and the economic blunderers mission in ensuring the full use of allocations of the Labor Party came to power only if the Federal Government could find a way because people had forgotten what it was to encourage manufacturers to use a greater like to live under socialism. It will be a long percentage of Australian leaf in cigarettes. time before they forget again just what a mess those blunderers made of this country. Another problem in my electorate, which If the Federal Government has had to reduce the commission is endeavouring to solve, is the amount of money for irrigation, that can the condition of the weir at Goondiwindi. be attributed directly to the mess that the It is an old weir and badly in need of repair. Labor Government made of Australia in the Back in June 1974 the commission approved three years that it was in office. a proposal for repairs to the value of $12,000. But since then we have been both fortunate The Irrigation and Water Supply Commis­ and unfortunate to have had good seasons. sion is also trying to deal with the problem One of the unfortunate results of these good of depleted stocks of artesian water in seasons is that it has been impossible to Queensland. The total flow of artesian bores carry out this work, but I am pleased about is now 859 megalitres a day, compared with the commissioner's assurance this morning 1 600 megalitres a day in 1914. Because of that, as soon as the stream flow allows it that, the commission usually does not grant this work will be done. ' licences for bore drains from new bores. It believes that all flows should be controlled. When discussing the border rivers, it is interesting to note the allocations to New In my opinion, graziers should be told South Wales and Queensland. I understand more frequently about the danger of depleting that for the year ended 30 June 1976 the reserves of artesian water, and the commis­ New South Wales allocation was 11 686 sion should crack down on any grazier who megalitres and Queensland's was 17 143 wastes water. Graziers who neglect leaking megalitres. This gives the lie to those people troughs or bores running uncontrolled just who say that Queensland does not get its because they know that the chance of an 1334 Supply (28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates) officer of the Irrigation and Water Supply One of the very good points is that the Commission coming round is not great must commission has apparently moved away from be made to realise that the only people they the idea of having a concrete structure as are hurting are themselves. They must a barrage on the Mary River and is consider­ measure up to their responsibilities and ing simply a rock barrage for the sole pur­ co-operate with the commission in its pose of keeping out salt water. It is not endeavour to make the best use of the going to be a storage barrage at all, and underground water that this State is fortunate this helps to keep the cost down. The com­ in having. mission is looking at stage development, as I understand it, which means that, even (Time expired.) though it is relatively small project, the full cost will not have to be spent and the pro­ Mr. ALISON (Maryborough) (3.49 p.m.): ject completed before we get some benefits am pleased to take part in the debate on from it. I understand that the two weirs the Estimates of the Irrigation and Water are estimated to cost $2,000,000 or Supply Commission. In all sincerity, I $3,000,000. The scheme is of major import­ should like first to congratulate the Minister ance and we eagerly await an opportunity to on the job he is doing in this portfolio. study the report. We look forward to the I had the pleasure of having the Minister, project getting some priority so that in the Mr. Learmonth and certain other officers of not too distant future we will have at least the Irrigation and Water Supply Commission part of the project in operation. in Maryborough towards the end of last year, when they made inspections relating to I was advised by the Maryborough Sugar certain aspects of a project that is now under Factory that if this year we had a drought consideration. I thank Mr. Learmonth and like the one we had in 1969, $12,000,000 his officers for their ever ready assistance. would be lost by way of production in They always bend over backwards in assisting the Maryborough area. That is just one me to understand what is going on with drought. Such a saving in one drought this very important project on which I shall would just about cover the cost of the bar­ comment in a moment. I congratulate Mr. rage. Surely that has to be taken into Beattie on his appointment, which I presume account. he will take up on 1 January. I am quite sure he will do an excellent job. I wish to raise another matter that I would like the Minister and his officers to take The Maryborough project I referred to into account. In the not too distant future involves a barrage on the Mary River down­ Hervey Bay will be in strife with its muni­ stream from Tiara and a barrage on Tinana cipal water supply. It now has a permanent Creek, with an irrigation scheme within that population of 8,000 people and one of the U-shaped area, Tiara being at the western highest growth-rates in the State. The latest end as well as some of the riparian land. census reveals that over the past five years That project is of major importance to my it had a population growth-rate of 8.16 city and district. We eargerly await pub­ per cent and in the preceding five years a lication of the project report. I understand rate of 6.92 per cent. from the Minister that the report will be in his hands in December. As I understand it, owing to the inadequacy of the scheme-it is not that insufficient Sugar, of course, is the main consideration water is available-problems are arising at under this proposal, but there could be the present time. Hervey Bay does not seem other crops. We will be interested to see to have any other worth-while catchment what advice the Department of Primary area. Its storage area is the Burrum River Industries comes up with as to crops that barrage. I am led to believe that at the might be grown there. Of course it is not present rate of growth in population the just a matter of growing the crops; we have Hervey Bay area will be in real strife as to be able to sell them. Referring to this early as 10 years from now. By then the project, the annual report indicates that there Burrum River will have become totally are 7 000 hectares of possible cane land within inadequate to provide sufficient water for the area being looked at. Within that area the population that the area is estimated to there are 2 500 hectares of cane assignments have at that time. at present. Because of the degree of slope, some of that land might not be suitable I am sure that the Minister will take for cane-growing, but there still seems to be cognisance of these facts. People who know room for certain expansion in the sugar more about these matters than I do have industry in Maryborough with new assign­ told me that it would not require a great ments in the proposed irrigated area as well engineering feat to reticulate water from the as room for other crops. proposed project to Hervey Bay. In August this year the Minister advised Another striking feature of the project me that the the latest estimate of the cost is the Borumba Dam, from which water of the scheme was $12,000,000 to would be obtained to service the proposed $13,000,000. It is really a relatively minor irrigated area at Maryborough. It is interest­ project on the score of cost, but to my ing to note in the annual report that at the area it is an extremely important one. beginning of the year the Borumba Dam Supply [28 0crOBiiR 1976] (Estimates) 1335 was storing 38 070 megalitres, or 89 per cent prime agricultural land being chopped up of its capacity. At the same time the volume into areas that are useless for primary of water released was 6 318 megalitres, or production. less than one-sixth of the water stored and less than one-eighth of the dam's storage In conclusion, I thank the Minister for capacity. I would hope that the Minister his willing assistance and I thank Mr. will consider this as another good reason Learmonth and his senior officers. Mr. why the Mary River-Tinana Creek project Dowling is one of the officers I see most should be given top priority. of. I greatly appreciate the assistance that he and Mr. Morse give me. I look forward Perhaps the Minister could in his closing to Nev Hewitt continuing to be the Minister remarks offer some comments on the method for Water Resources in the coming years. of obtaining finance from the Federal Govern­ ment. I have not had a chance to study the Mr. BERTONI (Mt. Isa) (4.1 p.m.): 8 annual report in full-perhaps this appears October this year saw another milestone in in it-and I would be interested to know the history of Mt. Isa. I was indeed how the State Government goes about asking honoured to be associated with that milestone the Federal Government for finance, what the -the official opening of the Julius Dam. priorities are, what guide-lines are laid down That dam, which is 46 miles up the Leich­ by the Federal Government, what schemes hardt River from Mt. Isa, has been con­ are looked at and what method of granting structed for the development of the North subsidy is adopted. West in general and for the use of the city of Mt. Isa in particular. The Government When the public have access to the project is to be congratulated for honouring its report, either later this year or early next promise to the people of the North West by year, I shall be forming a committee of supplying adequate finance for the completion interested civic-minded people to help get of that dam. the message across to the community and so Mr. Ahern: You deserve a lot of personal assist the project in some small way. Quite credit for it yourself. often confusion arises over any project, whether it is carried out by the Irrigation Mr. BERTONI: I had a lot to do with it, and Water Supply Commission or the Works yes. I can recall that, when it was decided Department, so it is important to get the to proceed with the dam, the then mayor facts across to the general community and in of Mt. Isa, Aid. Bill Weigh, signed the particular the people who are directly con­ necessary documentation. I took over from cerned in the proposed irrigation scheme, him at the fo~lowing election in March 1973 in this instance the farmers. It is possible and had the problem of seeing that the dam that we will get a feed-back to the com­ was constructed and that it was adequately mission from the community and the primary financed. producers. I remember the number of headaches and For some time now I have been assisted problems the construction of the dam caused in my approaches to the Minister by John us. We had to place continuous pressure on Jurss, the manager of the Maryborough and both the State and Federal Governments for District Development Board; Councillor Tom additional finance. The projected cost of Gee, the chairman of the Tiaro Shire Council $21,000,000 rose to $30,000,000, and the and chairman of the Maryborough and contribution of the Mt. Isa ratepayers District Cane Growers' Executive; and Tom increased to $7,000,000. As a result of the Braddock and his executive staff at the pressure we applied on the Government, the Maryborough Sugar Factory. I greatly city's contribution has been reduced to appreciate the assistance that they have given $5,000,000. I certainly express to the Govern­ me. ment the appreciation of the people of Mt. Isa for the provision of that additional One thing in my area that worries us is $2,000,000. that within what is now the Woocoo Shire and the Tiaro Shire very good agricultural Mr. McKechnie: I understand that the areas are being cut up into blocks of five Leader of the Opposition is really worried acres, three acres and less. In some cases about what a good job you have done for it is just a case of people making a quick Mt. Isa. quid. Fair enough; that is their prerogative. It worries me and others in the city and the Mr. BERTONI: He may have to worry district who realise that this is going on. I even more about that fairly soon. urge the local authorities involved to care­ I can recall the number of discussions we fully consider the proposed developments had with the Minister and the number of when they are submitted for approval and to submissions we made to the State Govern­ do what they can to avoid having good ment for additional finance. I cannot speak agricultural land cut up into small blocks too highly of the way in which the Minister that are useless in any irrigation scheme. I handled his portfolio. He gave me tremendous believe that the good of the community at support and backed my submissions in large has to be taken into account and some Cabinet at all times. I could not ask much effort must be made to stop these areas of more from a Minister. 1336 Supply [28 OcTOBER 1976] (Estimates)

I congratulate, too, the late Mr. Fred mayor of Mt. Isa said that the State Govern­ Haigh, who was the commissioner when the ment had played its part and that now it was dam was first commissioned, and then Mr. up to the Federal Government to play its Frank Learmonth, who took over from Fred. part. They both supported me in my various sub­ missions to the Government. Recently in Mt. Isa a symposium was held on Water Resource Utilisation in Arid Envir­ The gentleman whom all Queenslanders onments, at which there were seven or eight and certainly the people of Mt. Isa should guest speakers. A book was produced that admire is the Premier. At one time he went outlined the problems experienced in out on a limb during a television programme arid climates. It may be interesting to hon­ and promised us assistance. As I said before, ourable members to know that one of the this Government has kept its promises. biggest problems in the arid environment is the evaporation of water. If I recall cor­ The problems that led to the construc­ rectly, it was said that Lake Moondarra loses tion of the Julius Dam are important and over 30 per cent of its capacity annually should be recorded. I have spoken a number through evaporation. It was also said that of times on this subject in this Chamber. I twice as much water is lost through evap­ have dealt with the financing of the dam and oration than is consumed. This causes I have pointed out the tremendous water­ problems which must result in costly and rate burden that would be placed on the larger dams. In addition, we do not have citizens of Mt. Isa unless some type of fin­ as much rainfall as other areas and we have ancial assistance was forthcoming. to store as much water as possible. It should be recorded indelibly that the We are fortunate that we now have three Labor Federal Government did not give as dams in Mt. Isa supplying the city. The first a grant le towards the cost of construction to be opened was the Rifle Creek Dam. Then of this dam. The only contribution that came as we grew, MIM Ltd. constructed Lake from any Federal source was a $2,000,000 Moondarra, which supplied the city for a repayable loan. In return for the contribution number of years. Then, looking to the future made by the people of the North-west, some and considering the last drought season, we type of finance should be forthcoming from were compelled to build further water storages the Federal Government. I hope that it will and that is how the Julius Dam came keep its promises to support the people in into being. I think it fair to say that there the Mt. Isa area by providing additional fin­ will be sufficient water in the Mt. Isa area ance in the next Federal Budget. till at least the year 2000. Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: You have my un­ During the period of the financing of Lake qualified support in that regard. Julius Dam, approximately 18 to 20 telegrams were sent to various people. One was sent Mr. BERTONI: I thank the Minister. I to each Minister and one was sent to the know that we have it. Liberal, National and Labor Parties. Replies were received from all except the Labor Mr. Jensen interjected. Party. They did not even acknowledge the telegram. They were not interested in what Mr. BERTONI: I can guarantee the hon­ happened to Mt. Isa; it did not concern ourable member that tremendous support them whether finance was or was not obtained did come from both the Minister and the for that area. I should like that recorded Premier. I believe that the members of the in "Hansard" because that is exactly what A.L.P. should be more vocal and apply happened. pressure on their Federal colleagues to obtain I would like to conclude by once again extra financial assistance for the Julius Dam thanking the Government _for the assista~ce project. However, I must agree that the honour­ provided in the constructiOn of the Julms able member for Bundaberg has always been Dam. Now we must look further to the an honest and sincere gentleman. I recall Cloncurry a;ea. I believe that it is imperative some of his remarks supporting me. I admit that we support the proposed new dam for that. Also, I recall Mr. Whitlam saying in the township of Cloncurry so that adequate Mt. Isa that he would assist us on a dollar­ water will be available for the new smelter for-dollar basis. Then when he considered that I sincerely hope will eventually be the position at a later date he changed his established there. On behalf of the people of mind. The people in Mt. Isa are indeed very Mt. Isa, I again thank the Government for disturbed that up to this stage the Federal the part that it played in the financing of the Government has not assisted them in any Julius Dam. way. The project is now completed and com­ Mr. LESTER (Belyando) (4.12 p.m):. In missioned. Even though it will be beneficial the first p1ace, I wish to thank the Mmtster to our area, we are still not out of our fin­ for what he has done in an attempt to help ancial problems. Next year there will prob­ the people of my area. It is particularly ably be a further increase in water rates dependent upon water for the production of and it is imperative that the Federal Govern­ its products such as coal, gram, cattle and ment provides some financial assistance. The timber. If ever there was diversification of Supply [28 OcroBER 1976] (Estimates) 1337 industry, it is in the Belyando electorate. by a lack of funds from the Federal Govern­ Water is needed up in the cattle country in ment in any way so that it cannot carry on the North at Suttor River, where we are its operations to improve Queensland's hoping to have water stored, up in Collins­ exploitable water reserves, then I say it is a ville, down to Moranbah through the pipe­ deplorable situation. Inflation has alre~dy line from the Eungella Dam, up to Goon­ curtailed work on projects under way, wh1ch yeJla and Peak Downs, down to Blackwater is a worry to me and to other members through the good graces of the Mackenzie because there are many areas that are or River, and to Clermont, CapeJla, Alpha, will be in desperate need of storage water Jericho and Duaringa. in the very near future. The Government's policy is to provide funds for works to This brings me to the point that the Fair­ conserve water for irrigation, stock and bairn Dam at Emerald is one of the greatest urban supplies, and the provision of these acquisitions that this country has ever had. works should continue unhampered. These There are in this area 41 farms so far com­ funds should have the very highest priority, pleted and another four are to be completed and I am very pleased to see that the by February next year. Furthermore, it is Minister and the commission consider it hoped that within two years farms wiiJ be necessary to make long-term assessments of built to the east of Emerald. Although there Queensland's future water supplies and needs, may be some concern about the time Jag, and that forward planning is to take place finance and demand are such that we have to in respect of major dams for urban purposes be thankful for what has already been in the near future. This is long overdue. If achieved. Whatever the Minister can do to this forward planning branch had been in push the scheme along wiii certainly be very operation 20 years ago we might now have greatly appreciated. had the second stage of the Leslie Dam and In Blackwater, $2,789,713 has been spent other such projects completed at a much on the Blackwater water~supply scheme. Vast lower cost than it will be today, if these sums of money have similarly been spent on projects are to be completed at all. supply schemes to other major mining, indust­ We must proceed further with assistance rial and grazing areas in my electorate. It for rural water supplies, and also the pro­ is interesting to note in the Fairbairn Dam vision for more water for irrigation. I might area that on the channel-supplied farms there add that irrigation accounts for approximately are 674 hectares of wheat, 612 of cotton, 290 20.44 per cent of Queensland's total rural of sunflower, 138 of safflower and 1 227 of production, which is certainly a very sorghum. These products, with others pro­ important part of our economy. duced with water from the dam, represent a total output of $888,720. There is a very serious problem looming in areas which have limited sites for further The dam is partly responsible for all . of urban water storage. Toowoomba is one area this production, and it is this productiOn facing this problem. Its last remaining viable which brings people to the area-people site is some 30 miles away. This is the site of who buy the farms, people who work on the proposed Cressbrook Dam which will, them and, of course, people who come to hopefully, be completed by 1985. It has run the towns to provide amenities. It is amaz­ into problems which are going to increase ing to see the number of establishments in its cost, and one of these problems is that Emerald selling all sorts of farm machinery. we simply do not have any other sites to In turn this brings in other types of business turn to. The escalating costs caused by delays such as welding. All I can say is that _the in testing this difficult site must eventually Minister's department is an extremely Im­ be borne by the ratepayer. With a completion portant one to my area and I most emphat­ date of 1982 the estimated cost was ically ask the Minister to continue to do $21,000,000, but I do not believe any esti­ all he can to help us. I say good luck to mate has been made of the cost when it is him in what he is trying to do. finaJly completed in 1985 or 1987. The cost of water to the ratepayer must skyrocket in Mr. WARNER (Toowoomba South) (4.16 that case, and it is now said that the cost p.m.): In rising to speak in this debate: I could be as much as three times the present must say that I believe that the conservatiOn rate of 63c per 1,000 gallons. of water is of the utmost importance not only for our immediate needs but for those I do not believe that any Jocal council of future generations. Over many years I or semi-government authority can cope with have been through many periods of drought these extra costs without imposing an on the land, and ,I am very conscious of how add1tional burden on the ratepayers, who are precious water is. The work doJ?-e. by the already carrying a heavy burden. Some Irrigation and Water Supply Commission over solution must be found to assist in providing the many years it has been in existence this extremely important water supply, cannot be praised enough-likewise the work which, I might add, supplies not onJy the of the Minister who has been responsible for city of Toowoomba but also the towns of the commission for the past seven years. Crow's Nest, Hampton, Cabarlah, Highfields and Meringandan and ~he army at Borneo It has been said by other members today Barracks. In addition, many small-crop that the Minister and his staff have worked growers are dependent on this water for as a team. If this team is now to be hampered irrigation. 44 1338 Supply [28 OcTOBER 1976] (Estimates)

The towns of Dalby, Pittsworth, Mill­ the ranks of the unemployed. My informa­ merran and Brookstead also face a deficiency tion is that the Commonwealth has cut water in water supplies. The Dalby Town Council resources grants by 50 per cent in real terms. alone has estimated a shortfall of 15,000,000 As all honourable members are aware, when gallons per annum. The requirements of these towns are estimated to be: ground there is a percentage cut, in real terms the water-urban 2,600 acre-feet per year; cut is often greater, and my information is irrigation 75,000 acre-feet per year. It is that in real terms the Commonwealth Gov­ known that the underground water level of ernment has cut water resources grants by the Condamine water basin has diminished 50 per cent. and that many bores used for irrigation have gone dry. Although wa,ter levels are I presume that other honourable melll:b.ers, improving at present, only a small drought including the spokesman for the Opposition, is needed for bores to go completely dry. have aaready referred to the Monduran Dam It is accepted that with cont~nued use at in the Bundaberg area. It is of concern to present levels, under existing conditions, the everybody that that particular projec~ is really ground water storage levels will be incapable continuing only at a skeleton level-If I could of sustaining large-scale irrgation by the put it that way. In that area over 300 mid 1990s unless corrective measures are unskilled or semi-skilled workers are out of taken, and I believe that they are being taken a job. Of that number some 130 could be already. described as young people. I do not need to The demand for more water for irrigation emphasise the problem of having young is probably up to the limit of the supplies people out of work. Of course, at th.e. end now available. Already there is a shortfall of the school year we wi1ll have an additwnal of about 60,000 acre-feet. The area irrigated large number of young persons coming onto in the catchment area is in excess of 70,000 the employment market. I understand that acres, and it produces 46,000 acres of there are only 15 vacancies in that area. The cereals in conjunction with soya beans, Monduran Dam will not be fully utilised until cotton, pasture crops and fodder. The value the whole project is completed and the of these crops is more than $-14,000,000 and, channels are developed so that water can therefore, production must be maintained by be supplied to the users. Federal and State irrigation. In fact, the total value would policies are leading to inefficient use of greatly exceed $14,000,000, because that was resources and keeping men out of work. In the value in 1974. general terms the direct labour content of If the proposed coalfield at Millmerran dam construction is about 40 per cent. The comes into being, initial requirements of labour component in that sor~ of ,work is water for that venture are estimated to be quite high. That. somewhat ju~!lfi~s my argu­ 20,000 acre-feet per year. On the basis of ment about unskilled and semJ-sblled labour. the facts presented, it is self-evident that If together the State and Federal Govern­ there should not be any fnrther irrigation ments were to spend a further $1,000,000 on development and that no substantial supplies that project it would mean $400,000 in wages, of ground or surface water for urban and and this would create work for about 50 men industrial usage 'Can be made available in for a further 12 months. That would be a Toowoomba. So one is led to the inevitable constructive approach to the situation. The conclusion that unless we preserve our men who are going to have to be retrenched resources we shall perish on the rock of will have to receive some payment from the want. It must be borne .in mind that the Federal Government by way of unemploy­ Darling Downs has not suffered a drought ment benefits. Surely together the Common­ of any magnitude for many a long day, wealth and State Governments could use this and I do not believe that its luck can last unskilled and semi-skilled labour on a job for ever. with a high labour component. In conclusion, I again commend the If the present funding arrangements. for Minister and his officers for the work they the Kinchant Dam, near Mackay, contmue have done over the last year. it wiU be 20 years before the project is anywhere near completion. That mean~ that Mr. YEWDALE (Rockhampton North) the community in that area and the pnmary (4.24 p.m.): I wish to make some brief industries that wi1ll ultimately benefit from comments on these Estimates. At the outset, the completion of the Kinchant Dam will I stress the importance of water storage be left hanging for more than 20 years. My and water usage in a State as large as information is that in the Mackay area there Queensland in which primary industries pre­ are 550 unskilled and semi-skilled workers dominate. However, in this debate I wish to without a job, Out of that 550, 200 are relate the utilisation of finance in the field classified as young persons. They will remain of water resources to the unemployment in on the dole unless something is done about Queensland, and probably in AustraJlia as a it. Why could not a further $1,000,000 be whole. · '"'"1 allocated to the Kinchant Dam? These days At present, while Federal and State Gov­ $1,000,000 is not a great deal of money ernments are cutting back on capital works when considering Government expenditure on projects, more and more workers are joining projects of this nature. Supply [28 OcTOBER 1976] (Estimates) 1339

The former Treasurer budgeted for a to Crystal Creek, which is situated in part of deficit of $5,000,000 last financiwl year, taking the watershed at Mt. Spec. It had a much into account the upward trend in wages in higher rainfall than the city of Townsville, Queensland. For some unknown reason the so it was able to provide a reasonably perm­ Treasury was out in its estimation, and the anent water supply as an adjunct to the three Budget finished about line ball for the State. weirs on the Ross River. Later the council So that $5,000,000 that was expected to be constructed a further storage dam on Swamp the State's deficit could be distributed around Creek, also on Mt. Spec, from which water Queensland. The usual question these days was channelled down to Crystal Creek and is, "Where do you get the money from?" through a second pipeline to the city. In a Certainly the Government expected to be very good wet season up to 10,000,000 gal­ $5,000,000 in deficit at the end of the lons a day are pumped through the two pipe­ financial year, but it finished up square. The lines to augment the city's water supply. expenditure of another $1,000,000 on the However, even then water rationing was Kinchant Dam would provide jobs for 50 quite usual in Townsville. people. That means 50 people who would not be on the dole, and their wages would In the early 1960s it became apparent that be supplemented by the dole money that Townsville was at the crossroads. Its geo­ otherwise woUild be paid by the Common­ graphical position was such as to allow wealth Government. Townsville to be the commercial and indust­ rial capital of North Queensland. The city It is sound common sense to put people to was slowly reaching that status, but not work so that they can involve themselves quickly enough. There was a general lack in production instead of being paid the dole, of confidence and business activity in Towns­ and, of course, their families are much ville. Major companies such as Comalco better off if they are working. did not even consider establishing their plants there. There simply was not enough water The 850 people in Mackay to whom I re­ for them. Ironically, at that time we were ferred are predominantly unskilled and semi­ having very good wet seasons with flooding skilled workers. I should think that approx­ in the low-lying suburbs. imately 100 jobs would be created on the construction of the Kinchant Dam, thereby The Government decided to lend a hand in shortening its construction period, which is the development of Townsville and the Irri­ presently estimated to be 20 years, and bene­ gation and Water Supply Commission con­ fiting the community as a whole. An added ducted :Some extensive investigations into advantage would be the return coming to the the most practicable method of obtaining Irrigation and Water Supply Commission additional water supplies for the city. It from what I might term the sale of water. was proposed that a major stor~ge ?am .be built further up Ross RIVer at tts JUnctiOn The Federal and State Governments have with a little stream called Five Head Creek. cut back the rate of construction much too To most of the local people that seemed severely. Additional funds should be made a ridiculous idea, as it involved building an available to provide employment and to earth-and-rock retaining wall some five miles supply our primary industries with the water long between two smah ranges. There is no that they so urgently need. If the money is natural gorge and the retaining wall is purely forthcoming, the State will develop at a much for the purpose of encompassing the water­ faster rate than at present. shed of Ross River. Mr. M. D. HOOPER (Townsville West) However it was the only option the city (4.32 p.m.): Until about 1975 Townsvi!le was council co~ld afford, so it was decided to always short of water for both domestic and proceed with Stage I of the Ross River Dam. commercial and industrial purposes. For the That was completed in 1974 and gave us a 100 years of its existence the city was forced further 75 000 megalitres of water each year, to rely for its water supply on the Ross River, or approximately 47 megalitres on any one a small stream only 30 miles in length. Suc­ day. That was the firs~ time in Town~vqle's cessive councils constructed small storage history that we were without water ratromng. weirs on Ross River, namely Gleason's Weir, People greatly appreciated the dam, if only Aplin's Weir and the Black School Weir; but for that reason. However, whereas the cost they were never sufficient to meet the was originally estimated at something like demands of the city. $7,000,000, because of inflation the figure grew during the course of those few short I can recall that about 30 years ago years to $11,000,000. water trains used to run daily from Rolling­ stone Creek and the Black River to Towns­ The city was hard pressed financially. We ville, bringing water supplies so that people could not get additional loan funds from the could get a drink. I also recall householders State. We did not wish to cancel contracts­ being allowed to turn on their taps for only obviously we were not able to, even if we one hour a day and having to store water had wished to. The then chairman of the in buckets and baths. water committee, Denis Hagarty, and I went to Canberra to try our luck down there. We After World War II the Townsvil!e City put a story to the Treasurer of the day, Bill Council embarked on an ambitious scheme to Snedden, and Mr. McMahon that Common­ lay an 18-in. pipeline approximately 50 miles wealth-paid personnel-Army and Air Force 1340 Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates) families as well as people working in the with Stage II of the Ross River Dam. The P.M.G., A.B.C. and various other Common­ only way we can obtain funds is by persuad­ wealth instrumentalities-represented some ing the Commonwealth Government to accept 15 per cent of the population of Townsville. its responsibility. In my view the Common­ The Government of the day decided that that wealth Government has a tremendous respon­ was a reasonable argument and gave us an sibility to decentralise and to populate North untied grant of $1,500,000 towards the cost Queensland, and the best way to do that is of Stage I. That went a long way towards to improve the quality of life for the people getting us out of our temporary financial who live there. North Queensland should be difficulties at that time. given plenty of water for domestic purposes and for industry and this will make it a better We were then coming into the pre-election place in which to live. period of 1972, when Mr. Whitlam made some promises to the people of Townsville. The Commonwealth Government must He said that he would fund completely the come to the party, and, if it does, we must cost of Stage 11 of the Ross River Dam. He recognise it must have a say in the com­ said also that he would build an international position of the water board. The State airport at Townsville, and that he would Government also will have some say. The station an extra battalion at Townsville. funding of construction costs for dams must be taken away from local authorities, par­ Mr. Byme: He said that he would halt ticularly large councils like the Townsville inflation and unemployment, too. City Council and the Thuringowa Shire Council. The councils, which have the expertise, will be required to control the Mr. M. D. HOOPER: We all know the reticulation in the area. promises Mr. Whitlam made. None of them were honoured, except that we received some My colleague the honourable member for contribution towards Stage 11 of the Ross Townsville, who has just left the Chamber, River Dam. I do pay recognition to them said that he was opposed to the use of for that. Although the other promises fell by the Ross River Dam for recreational pur­ the wayside, this was partly honoured. poses. I disagree with him. Townsville has a very hot climate, and during the summer The Labor Government said, "What is the months it is unwise to swim in the sea estimated cost of Stage 11?" The estimated because of the large number of stingers cost on 1972 figures was $5,200,000. The in the coastal waters. Studies have shown A.L.P. Government said, "We will give you that the use of dams for recreational pur­ half of that." We accepted $2,560,000 from poses does not create health hazards to the that Government as a grant towards Stage extent one might expect. For the last six II. We let a contract for Stage II, which is or eight years the dam at Swamp Creek to be built in three sections. It entails has been used for swimming and water skiing increasing the height of the embankment over and this has created no health hazards for its length of five miles and eventually the Townsville people. relocating five miles of western railway line and the main highway and resuming some The water-treatment plant for Stage II 6 000 hectares of land at council expense. of the Ross River Dam will be completed The height of the spillway is to be raised by in about three months' time. Studies have some 6.5 metres. That would give us eight to shown that the water will take at least two 10 times the water capacity of Stage I. How­ to three days to flow from the dam to the ever, the first part of Stage II has eaten up treatment plant, and after being treated there the $2,560,000, and the Townsville City should present no risk to the residents of Council obviously has nowhere to go for the city. Therefore I strongly urge the finance to complete Stage 11. Townsville City Council to allow, and I believe that it will, a limited use of the Temporarily we have sufficient water to dam for water sports, such as sailing, canoe­ keep the city going. However, if we are to ing and sculling. It will be of great benefit encourage industry to Townsville, Stage II to the people living in our northern climate. must be completed no later than 1980 or 1982. That will entail a considerable amount I said earlier that I thought the Com­ of finance-far beyond the capacity of the monwealth and State Governments should Townsville City Council ratepayers and the take a far greater interest in the provision ratepayers of the adjacent Thuringowa Shire. of water-storage facilities for Townsville. I At the moment that shire has a population of am sure that they intend to do this because 10,000 and over the years has enjoyed the in the last couple of years we have seen benefit of not paying for any headworks. the Federal and State Governments jointly However, it has benefited from being able fund studies of the water resources of the to buy water from the Townsville City Burdekin River basin. It is perfectly obvious Council for reticulation to its urban and near that by 1982 Townsville will have reached urban areas. the limits of its water-supply sources within 50 miles of the city. The Burdekin River It seems to me that we will need a water will be the only future source of supply. authority in the Townsville area before very Several dam sites have been chosen from long. Without a doubt, far greater funds will Keelbottom Creek down to the main Burde­ be required before we can proceed further kin Falls dam site. When the construction Supply [28 OcTOBER 1976] (Estimates) 1341

costs are established, I am certain that the me, if they are penetrated there is a likeli­ State and . Federal Governments will ack­ hood that the water supply will be total,ly nowledge their responsibilities and agree to lost. In other words, the plug would, in fund jointly a major dam for the Townsville effect, be pulled ont an:d the water would re.gion, which by the. turn of the century seep through the sandy base below the peat will have a populatiOn of approximately and find its way to the ocean. 200,000 people. I would like to pay a tribute to the officers Also of importance on the island is the of the Irrigation and Water Supply Com­ Blue Lake, which is so well know to tourists mission with whom I have had some contact and particularly conservationists, who would in the ~ast four or five years as mayor of prefer to see it kept in its present state for Townsvi!le and as a member of this Par­ all time. The surrounding area has in fact liament. The Minister, the late Mr. Haigh been maintained as a national park. Never­ and Mr. Learmonth have been very helpful theless, enormous quantities of fresh water to me when I have approached them. have been discharged from the lake into the sea hour by hour and year by year since This is a very difficult portfolio and it time began. does not receive a large allocation in the Budget each year. It relies heavily on fund­ There is sufficient fresh water on Strad­ ing from Federal Government departments. broke Island to cater for any development, When the financial crisis in Canberra is over­ whether it be mining, industrial or resi­ come, I feel certain that the Federal Gov­ dential. I believe there are very few places ernment will show a much greater interest in Queensland-indeed, in the whole of in development projects for Queensland and Australia-where such a large quantity of particularly North Queensland, where water fresh water pours into the sea without being is the staff of life. used by man. For some years it was thought that water from this area would be used to . Mr. GOLEBY (Redlands) (4.44 p.m.): It augment the water supply of Brisbane and surrounding areas. During the war years JS apparent from the remarks in the debate on the Estimates for the Department of Irri­ investigations were made, pa11ticularly by the gation and Water Supply that water is w1th­ Americans, of the possibility of bringing this out doubt the life-blood of the man on the water to the mainland to meet the needs of land and the city dweller. It is important that era. However, to date nothing has been for industry, too. done to use those water supplies. P.lans are now afoot to provide large earth dams to I would like to draw attention to the supply water to the south.east corner of the importance of water to the san:d-mining State. industry on Stradbroke Island. I think everybody knows that the sand-mining The electorate that I represent has con­ industry there is probably the largest of its siderable rural impor·tance. I refer to the kind on the coast of Queensland. There are "salad bowP' area which has for so long tw~ major companies operating and, in the producal vegetables and fruit that have mam, they are doing a good job. One uses been supplied to all parts of Australia. Pr0" the dry method of mining, which is not ducers in this area rely on underground water nearly as efficient as the dredging method. supplies and much work has been done over To us_e_ the dralging method successfully, vast the years by the commission to ascertain 1he quantities of fresh water are required. extent of such supplies. Wi,th one or two exceptions, the underground water supplies in There is no better place to find water ,than the Redlands area are poor. The red soils on Stradbroke Island. At present millions of there require quite a considerable amount of gallons of fresh water pour into the ocean water. each day frO!ll the various creeks, lagoons and lakes situated over the length and When one speaks of a viable unit in the breadth of the island. I refer partioularly Redlands area, one is not speaking of an to one swamp known locally as the Eighteen area of thousands of acres. Time was when Mile Swamp, which has provided virtually 10 acres was considered to be a large area. all the fresh water for the mining ventures Because of the economics of ,the industry, it in the locality. became necessary to amalgamate farms, so that now many of them are 30 to 40 acres. There are certain matters related to the Compared with rural holdings generally Eighteen Mile Swamp that I believe the throughout the State, that is, of course, still Department of Irrigation and Water Supply not a la:rge area. However, the output of has to take into account. I know that it has these farms, which produce at least three kept a close surveiiiance on this swamp crops a year -- over the years. Swamp levels are reduced considerably when the enormous pumps used in sand"mining are installed. The water level Mr. K. J. HOOPER: I rise to a point of drops and much of ~the vegetation associated order. I draw your attention, Mr. Kaus, to with the swamp tends to be destroyed. The the state of the Committee. peat beds of the swamps must not be pene­ trated too far because, according to what The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. hydrologists who have been in the area teii Kaus): Order! There is a quorum present. 1342 Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates)

Mr. GOLEBY: This is the only time I they wished. However, since the construc­ have seen the honourable member in the tion of the dam they have naturally had to Chamber today, and the first thing he does obtain a licence and now have to pay water when he enters the Chamber is draw attention rates. They realise, of course, that they to the state of the Committee. cannot have their cake and eat it, too. They now have a guaranteed year-round supply Mr. Doumany: He can't count. of water, but, as I said, the economics of the dairy industry make the payment of Mr. GOLEBY: He never could. these water rates quite a burden. The new Pie Creek diversion scheme in -the area will Mr. Powell. interjected. mean a far greater use of the water stored in the Borumba Dam, especiallly in the Gympie area. Mr. GOLEBY: I did not like to show the honourable member up. The honourable member for Townsville referred to the use of residential water supply Many of the small holdings in my elec­ storages for aquatic sports such as swimming. torate arl', to use a colloquialism, like pin I know that this is done in some centres, but cushions because the owners have been it is being done to a lesser extent because forced o·ver the years to sink so many wells experts advise us not to use residential water and bores in search of water. In many supply storages for swimming, aquatic sports localities very little underground water is and this type of thing. We all know that available, and where it is found it is affected modern-day filtration plants are quite able by salt, which makes it unsuitable for most to remove most impurities from water, but if of the fruit and vegetable crops grown in the we look at the situation in Victoria and area. However, in 1969 the Leslie Harrison New South Wales today we find that land Dam was constructed, and although it was is being resumed and houses moved out of constructed as a residential water supply it catchment areas in order to keep the water has been used quite considerably for the pure. rural holdings in the area. Very few bores or wells have been sunk in the area since As I said, although modern filtration this water supply was made available. methods remove most impurities, it has been Areservoir I have heard other speakers today refer and the Enoggera Reservoir in Brisbane are to the lack of farm water supplies in many fenced securely to ensure that there is no areas and to the dams that have been con­ intrusion by humans. The water from the 'tructed over the years. I would particularly Somerset Dam is filtered on its journey down like to draw the attention of the Committee the Brisbane River. As is passes through to the Borumba Dam on Yabba Creek in the sand-beds in the filtration plant, impuri­ the Mary River catchment area. This dam ties are removed by natural means. However, was built quite a few years ago and provides where a catchment area is small and the water for a very large fertile agricultural ponding area is close to the catchment, the area. The main industries in the locality problem arises of impurities getting into are pineapple-growing, and dairying. As the water. everyone would know, unlike dairying, pine­ apples do not require large quantities of I advocate very strongly that steps be water. Unfortunately, at the present time, taken to ensure that domestic water supplies owing to the economics of the dairy industry, are kept as pure as possible, and I do it is not able to adequately use the water not need to reiterate the problems that would available from this dam. Although many arise if an outbreak of serious disease occur­ pump licences were taken out when the red. Modern communities depend more scheme got under way, it is now not heavily on their water supply than any other economical for dairy farmers to take amenity, and if disease got into a water advantage of the water supply, and so many supply there would be no way of stopping millions of gallons of water flow down the it spreading and no time to find an alter­ Mary River and out to sea, and thus are not native source. utilised. At this stage, I should like to pay a Prior to the construction of the dam, tribute to the officers of the Irrigation and farmers on the upper reaches of the Mary Water Supply Commission for their co-oper­ River did not have any serious water prob­ ation and for the help they have given over lems. They were able to use all the water the years to landholders in my electorate. As Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates) 1343

I said earlier, it is a confined farming area Public Service numbers, all programmes, and many problems have arisen relative to capital works and so on. A light is now underground water. Much of the advice that visible at the end of the tunnel in the fight has been given has been heeded by land­ against inflation. The over-all policy of holders, to the advantage of all concerned. restraint has been shown to be working. I also thank the Minister for his co-oper­ That is proved by the statistics that are ation, and I congratulate the new Commis­ emerging. The Federal authorities should sioner of Irrigation and Water Supply on now be looking at providing some extra his appointment. assistance, particularly in the area of capital expenditure where that assistance would lead Mr. AHERN (Landsborough) (4.57 p.m.): to production. I have been waiting all day to take part in the debate, but there have been so many The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. speakers that till now I have not had the Kaus): Order! There is too much audible opportunity. conversation in the Chamber. It is my privilege to chair the Minister's parliamentary committee and I must say Mr. AHERN: Irrigation and water supply at the outset that I am tremendously is one area that the Federal Government impressed with the way in which the Minister could reasonably look at, because capital is handling his portfolio and, in particular, investment in this sphere would lead to a with the investigations that are now being good deal of investment in the private sector, carried out over the length and breadth of particularly if it was ensured that the con­ Queensland. Every watercourse is being tracts went to private-enterprise companies examined and every possibility is being very and that the work was not done by day­ comprehensively canvassed with a view to labour forces. It would provide a stimulus planning for Queensland's future needs. Quite to production. I am not suggesting that considerable sums of money have been drift­ across-the-board investment in capital pro­ ing through from the Federal Government jects of any nature is justified, but that small to enable a full study to be made of under­ assistance for projects designed specifically to ground water resources, subartesian supplies assist the private-enterprise sector to produce and, in particular, the very many surface would be very useful indeed. It is in this area water resources in this State. Without this that I hope the Federal Government will information, there is very little possibility give some assistance. of the Irrigation and Water Supply Com­ mission's planning effectively to meet Queens­ The Treasurer pointed out in his Budget land's future needs. Basic information is that he would like to see some investment now being thoroughly researched, and the money go towards water storages. There are establishment of a separate Water Resources other areas of capital investment that would portfolio is enabling information to be col­ assist the private sector to produce. What lated and planning to be undertaken in an we need in this country to overcome inflation efficient manner. There are very many com­ and to lead the nation back to recovery is peting uses that make demands on water more production from the private sector. resources in Queensland, and as the State Some investment to assist private-enterprise continues to grow these uses will need to companies to produce, both on the land and be planned and resources rationed by the in the construction field, would help the commission. economy. It would not adversely affect the This appears to be the last year in which fight against inflation-in fact it would any reasonable amount of Federal money strengthen it. The Minister should stress that will be available for planning by the com­ point in his representations to the Federal mission. The Minister said that since 1967-68 authorities. This is one area where the $45,000,000 in Federal money has come to Federal Government could assist without Queensland for one type of planning or adversely affecting the fight against inflation. another or for construction projects. I pay Indeed, it would assist Australia along the tribute to the former Federal Minister for road to recovery. Primary Industry, Charlie Adermann, who initiated this type of scheme in Canberra. What impresses me is the change in the It has been a very worth-while scheme and emphasis on water resources planning in has enabled a lot of very good projects to Queensland in recent times. As the Minister be commenced. It has provided the neces­ said in his introductory remarks, we now sary capital to ensure that they proceeded have greater emphasis on mineral develop­ to the extent they should. ment and the needs of the mining industry. Increasing emphasis is being placed on water The Minister has indicated that during resources planning to meet the needs of our this year there is $4,300,000 to come, but urban communities. that is it as far as Federal money is con­ cerned. The Federal Government has made There is an increasing need for water no new commitment for the future. I under­ resources planning in the area of industrial stand the position in which the Federal development. Here I make particular Government finds itself. From every point of reference to the development of a paper-mill view there had to be restraint in the Fraser­ in South-east Queensland. Most honourable Lynch Budget-restraint in Commonwealth members would know that this is on the 1344 Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates) forward-planning list. At the present time hands on. The Minister should have insisted Australian Paper Manufacturers Ltd. owns that the South-east Queensland water author­ 86,000 acres north of Brisbane, on which it ity be placed under his jurisdiction so that is carrying out extensive plantings of Pinus he could maintain very tight control over the elliottii. It has entered into firm contracts planning in this area. with the Forestry Department to purchase timber from State forests for conversion In recent times the emphasis in agricultural into paper-pulp. This long-term project has devl'llopment has been upon the consolidation been in the planning stages for some time. of existing areas of agriculture rather than on At the present time the establishment of the creation of vast new areas through this industry, a water-thirsty industry, is in massive investment. Perhaps the circumstances progress. A paper-mill is a competing use for of the day have indicated that that is water in this area of South-east Queensland. necessary. However, in most areas there has been a surfeit of supply. The Government Mr. Marginson: I wouldn't say it will could be justly criticised by sections of happen simply because they are planning it. primary industry if it were to create vast The Government has been planning a new numbers of new farms to produce commodi­ railway station in Ipswich for six years and ties that are already in over-supply. we still haven't got it. I would like to see in the future a greater degree of planning in new agricultural pro­ Mr. AHERN: The honourable member's jects with co-operation between the irrigation logic is about as strong as the Labor Party authorities and the Department of Primary in Queensland. That is a non sequitur, if ever Industries. When new agricultural ventures I heard one. are being established today, much economic The Government has entered into firm con­ and agronomic information is available to tracts with A.P.M. to supply it with timber assist in planning; and it ought to be applied. from. State forests. The company has Whi:lst I compliment some of •the new efforts acqmred 86,000 acres and is expanding still that have been made, I am quite certain further for no reason other than to establish that the latest expertise has not been brought a pulp-mill in South-east Queensland. That to bear. I would like to see new emphasis is the fact. given to this co-operation in the future so that proper economic planning is adopted The increasing needs of the hydroelectric in the establishment of new production units. authorities throughout the State also have to be ta~en into consideration. Quite clearly The Minister has said that greater there IS greater emphasis in this area of emphasis is now given to exploitation of our it;~>:estment. ~dded demands for electricity, underground resources. It is heartening that nsrng coal pnces and more industrial dis­ he is maintaining considerable interest in the putatioJ! than ever before are placing the management of those resources and their emphasis on the need for hydroelectric restoration by various methods. I suppose schemes and the supply of huge volumes of that the Burdekin scheme is most notable for water for use by them. Another aspect that its replenishment. It has been tremendously is of major importance is flood control. successful. The benefits have proved to be As the Minister said earlier today, it is a marvellous return on the investment by good that the Government decided in 1974 to the Government and the farmers who con­ give to the Minister for Water Resources the tributed to its establishment. I would like ministerial responsibility for the administra­ the department to give new emphasis to this tion and control of the planning, design and type of thing. The water-tables should be construction of major dams for urban water replenished to their original levels. supply and services. There is a need for more The Minister commented that an investiga­ intense planning of future water-storage areas tion into replenishment is to be conducted. in South-east Queensland. In days gone by I would like to see special attention given to the major emphasis was placed on agricultural the replenishment of the artesian basin. From schemes, but that is no longer so. time to time people write about the possi­ One thing that astonishes me is that the bility of achieving it by artificial means. In n~w South-east Queensland water authority terms of the margin of return on cost, I Will not be the bailiwick of the Minister for think that the benefit would be tremendous. Water Resources. Apparently it will be ad­ The Minister said, "We are keeping a close ministered by the Minister for Local Govern­ eye on it. We are husbanding the resources. ment and Main Roads. I find that hard to People are not going to be allowed to let understand. Why should it not be the re­ it run down drains as they did previously." sponsibility of the Minister for Water I think a major replenishment scheme would Resources, so that he can bring all these be of great benefit. Indeed, it must be competing needs together and, through his undertaken if that excdlent resource is to various commissioners, exercise ministerial be maintained in perpetuity for this State's supervision over them? pastoral industry. Intense competition for water resources will I wish to make a few comments on the develop in South-east Queensland. We will investment now made by the Irrigation and need all the surface water we can lay our Water Supply Commission in various types Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates) 134S of dams for urban and other uses. We as State accounted for one-fifth of its rural a Government have to look more at the production, or approximately $250,000,000. amount of excellent agricultural land that This might not sound much, but under the is being inundated as a result of these new present circumstances in some of our rural schemes. The problem is compounded by industries the situation would be very much the restraints that are imposed in respect worse had it not been for the water that was of many thousands of acres of land in the available for irrigation. catchment areas. The Minister has said that I would like to see a little more back-up this practice will be watched very closely in reserve in the Tinaroo area. Because of the future. This competition is something that trouble in the powerhouse at Collinsville at will have to be watched in the future because the present time, these areas are drawing I feel that the agricultural resources, par­ very heavily on water. It is necessary to meet ticularly those in South-east Queensland, are the great demand required by some of the quite finite. These schemes submerge thou­ industries that are suffering very badly from sands of acres of prime agricultural land. this quite irresponsible blackmail. I shall not Mr. Elliott: It puts some of the best land bore the Committee with that now, although under water. it is extremely important when it is realised that almost every industry today is to some degree a user of electricity. At present users Mr. AHERN: The honourable member are stringently rationed and in some cases says rightly that we are submerging many they are losing perishable commodities. It is thousands of acres of our best land. The beyond me how people in key positions can community has to put a cost on this and hurt others to the degree that they are take it into account. The best schemes in being hurt at present, including their work­ South-east Queensland might appear beneficial mates who are losing their jobs. Their great when only cost is considered, but they are scream is for an isolation allowance or some not as lucrative when the area of agricultural other allowance. Nobody is interested in land that is alienated is assessed. doing very much for primary producers, who Many members wished to participate in are endeavouring to preserve perishables and this debate, and I am very pleased to have who are sustaining losses. had the opportunity to speak in it. I thank As honourable members probably know, all members, particularly those of the Oppo­ in the tobacco industry there are many cur­ sition, for hearing me in silence. ing barns that need power for their opera­ tion. If they do not get power, the tobacco Mr. ARMSTRONG (Mulgrave) (5.17 is ruined. There may be some who see that p.m.): It gives me a great deal of pleasure to as a good thing. I do not share their view; say a few words in the debate on the tobacco-growing is an important industry in Estimates of the Minister for Water North Queensland and one that makes a Res·ources. I commend the Minister and the fairly large contribution to our economy. staff of his department on the job that they But for the efforts of the commission over are doing for Queensland. I do not think it the years, the production of this industry can be denied that this is a very important would not be stable, nor would it be any­ facet of government and the commission has thing like its present figure. When growers done a very worth-while job over the last relied on the elements, tobacco was a pretty few years. I have found the Minister very difficult crop to produce. With the advent of forthright, very attentive and very prompt the Tinaroo Falls Dam and the reticulation when representations have been made to him. of water to farms, the crop has become He is not frightened to make decisions­ stable, of good quality and very good from something which is lacking in many other an economc point of view. areas. I commend his staff for the help that they have given to me over the years when I should also like to join with other mem­ I have confronted them with my problems. bers in wishing the present Commissioner of They, too, have been very prompt and Irrigation and Water Supply well in his helpful. impending retirement. I hope he does not find retirement too boring after the hectic When the late Mr. Haigh was commis­ life that he has been leading in the com­ sioner, there was a problem in my electorate mission. When he has shed his heavy respon­ with a major flood, and he unstintingly gave sibilities, perhaps he will wonder what js his time round the festive season to inspect going on. I sincerely hope that he w1Il the areas. The Minister would have been be spared for many years to enjoy doing there also but he was marooned in an­ whatever he wants to do. other part of the State. Occasions like this show how these officers apply themselves Whilst many members might be interested beyond the normal call of duty. It was in preserving water, as I am, too, in some greatly appreciated by the people of my parts of my electorate, in others the reverse electorate. applies. I refer particularly to the coastal areas where sugar-cane is grown and major Even a quick look at the report brings problems are interfering s?bstantially w~th home forcefully the important role played by production. If time permits, I shal! g1':'e the commission. The rainfall for the year was a few examples. In the last expansiOn m above average and the irrigated areas of the the sugar industry, cane-growing was extended 1346 Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates)

into some low-lying areas, mainly because Minister and his commJssioners for the necessary services such as roads, tram lines assistance they have given us in this field. and electricity were already available there. The Minister has made $40,000 available This is an area that receives over 6 000 mm to help with that investigation. I counsel him of rain a year, which has a very devastating to do all that he can to bring about stable effect on production. It is in this area that production in this area. I assure him my interest lies, in the main, at present. that, with the present inflation, no sugar mill can survive when production drops by The commission has played, and is contin­ 200 000 tonnes in one year. That sort of uing to play, a part in efforts to bring about thing is pretty hard to live with and it stable production in the area to which I means a lot of hardship in the district. refer, which is mainly north of lngham, in which a great deal of land needs draining. So I again thank the Minister and wish Much of it is subject to flooding in wet the commissioner well in his retirement. I seasons and this plays havoc with the look forward to the same co-operation and economy of the area, in both the production help from his successor as I have had from of sugar and the service industries and those him. dependent upon them. Mr. HARTWIG (Callide) (5.29 p.m.): I To stress the importance of what I am would commend the Minister on the fact that saying, I shall give the Committee an indica­ since he took over this portfolio, six dams tion of the pattern of events over the last and 16 weirs have been built in Queensland. few years. I referred a few minutes ago to As honourable members know, Queensland the late Mr. Haigh and the way in which now has a tot~] of 14 dams and 63 weirs. he came up during a major flood a few What is more important, of course, is that years ago to meet the people and make plans all of these dams and weirs are operating for a future investigation which might ultim­ at better than 90 per cent capacity, no doubt ately overcome the problem and stabilise owing to the series of good years which we production. have experienced generally in the State. Let me give honourable members an idea Water is the life-blood of primary industry, of what is happening in the Babinda area, a basic need of secondary industry and a and to some extent other areas such as Innis­ necessity for the general welfare and con­ fail. In 1972 the rainfall in Babinda was venience of people living in cities, provincial 5 181 mm. In 1973 the Babinda Mill towns and country areas. In fact, nothing crushed 632 000 tonnes of cane. In 1973 can live without water. If one considers the our rainfall went up to some 6 300 mm and arid and semi-arid conditions in this State the 1974 crush came back to 431 688 tonnes, and the tremendous heat in summer months, a reduction of some 200 000 tonnes. We are one quickly becomes aware of how necessary talking about a commodity that at the time it is to have additional water resources readily was probably worth $18 a tonne, so we can available. The motion before the Committee see what a terriffic loss that was to the is- area. While we know that drainage and flood "That there be granted to Her Majesty, mitigation are expensive, if we can stabilise for the service of the year 1976-77, a production and get up to something like full sum not exceeding $8,375,000 for Depart­ production, this work would certainly not ment of Irrigation and Water Supply." be as costly as it seems on the surface. In And one might well ask whether that amount 197 4 we had a lower rainfall of some 4 200 is not only a drop in the bucket. mm and in 1975 we crushed almost 700 000 tonnes of cane. Even then, because of wet I should like to place on record my weather we left some cane urrharvested. In thanks to the Minister for the assistance he 1975 the rainfall again rose to 6 332 mm and has given towards the construction of Stage the crush this year came down to 547 000 II of the Callide Dam. During this financial or 550 000 tonnes, which is again a big re­ year, $1,200,000 is to be expended, and the duction. For other mill areas the pattern is work will include the building of a diversion somewhat similar, so it is in this field that channel to reticulate water from the Callide we are looking forward to further co-opera­ Dam to the Kroombit and Kariboe Creeks. tion from the commission. It is hoped that this will build up the underground water storage through the I am not saying we are not getting co­ aquifers of those respective creeks and pro­ operation. The Minister has come up to vide a more substantial! and stable irrigation the area and met deputations. He has also system in the Callide Valley. made money available for other industry schemes and some investigations have been Without doubt, the Callide Valley is one made into the land involved. of the richest valleys in Queensland, yet, because of the increase in railway freight Let me briefly cite some important figures. rates of 15 per cent on top of the 40 per Something like 43 000 ha of land are now cent increase last year, the lucerne growers under production, and of that total roughly who are irrigating their crops find it almost 40 per cent is low-lying, so honourable mem­ impossible to get lucerne out of the region. bers can understand why in a very wet y0ar I hope that people paying to irrigate their production in some mill areas drops to the 'lucerne can be given a rail freight concession extent I have indicated. I commend the to enable them to sell their product. Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976] (&timates) 1347

I notice that the Commonwealth Govern­ Mr. BYRNE (Belmont) (5.36 p.m.): I rise ment has provided $4,318,059 this financial to speak in this Estimates debate to point out year and that $3,422,000 of that is for 1he that in establishing a specific portfolio of construction of rural water supply works. water resources, with one Minister being As I have already stated, I fought jolly hard totally responsible for that area, the Queens­ to have Stage II of the Callide Dam under­ land Government has pointed to the very taken, and I also fought hard to have the great importance that water plays in pro­ Callide Power Station extended. I believed ductivity. In Australia water is one of the that additionail generating capacity should be most important and valuable natural resources provided at that power station because the we possess. Although one can look around Thiess coal mine is only a mile from the Australia and see the many attempts made to power station on one side and the Callide conserve water, if this nation is to fulfil its Dam is only a few hundred yards away on role in feeding the world, a great deal of the other side. foresight will have to be shown in planning for adequate water supplies. However, in advancing that argument I drew the wrath of the ,irrigators in the Callide When I travelled to South-east Asia with the Valley, who said that I was ignoring their parliamentary delegation led by the Minister requirements. Nothing was further from the whose Estimates we are debating, I was able truth. I was attempting to get the gates for to discuss with officials and authorities the the dam by extending the generating capacity important subject of water resources. At that of the power station, thus also making sure time it came very much to my attention that that additional water would be available for the South-east Asian countries regarded water irrigation. So I make it quite clear to the as one of their greatest resources. It became irrigators in the Callide Valley that I have very clear to me that if we had water west at all times fought, and always will fight, of the Divide, if we had water in our under for the installation of the gates on the 24 in. rainfall belt, we would have the Callide Dam. resources and the ability to feed an enormous population. In recent weeks and months I have had further discussions with the Minister, who has Those people who tell us that there assured me that the deferment of the building is a problem of over-population in the of the gates does not mean that they will not world, those people who tell us that we must be built. They wi!I ultimately be installed have zero population growth, and those people on the dam, but increases in costs have who tell us that we are going to starve our­ made it impossible for him to allocate the selves out of existence always seem to fail necessary money at present. I point out to to realise that for thousands of years science the Committee that the expenditure of and technology have been able to provide $1,200.000 this financial year on the Callide man with the foresight and intelligence to Dam is the second highest expenditure on prepare for the future. the reticulation of water in this State. We must all realise that upon this nation's shoulders, and therefore Queensland's I say to the Minister that I appreciate the shoulders, rests the task in the decades ahead assistance he has given me and the good job of providing resources and food for other that he is doing. As I said earlier, the Callide nations that are under more strain and stress Valley is one of the richest valleys in Queens­ than we are. Absurd statements are made land, and it should be remembered that the about Australia's future, such as its being installation of floodgates on the dam will able to provide for a population of only double its capacity. As surely as night 25,000,000 persons. Such statements always follows day, drought will again raise its head seem to fail to take into account the possi­ in Queensland, and the installation of the bility of Governments' providing resources gates will ensure that water storage is like water. adequate for drought years. ''~"r ..JENSEN: I rise to a point of order. Let us go all out with drought mitigation The honourable member is not speaking to in Queensland. I believe that we are back­ the Estimates. He has no water in his area, ward in planning for drought relief. We anyhow. should do more to encourage the conservation of fodder; we should do more to encourage the conservation of water because it is the The TEMPORARY CHAffiMAN (Mr. iife-blood of the State. I am adamant that Kaus): Order! There is no point of order. in the future development of the vast State of Queensland sufficient water is the answer Mr. BYRNE: I must admit that I have far to 90 per cent of the problems. less water on the brain than the honourable member for Bundaberg has. I might also add I thank the Minister for his co-operation. that unfortunately the esoteric comments I I look forward to the completion of Stage II make appear to go over his head. He is of the Callide Dam. I look forward to the becoming very submerged in the debate. If day when the flood gates are put in place, and he looked into the matter closely, he would thus give us over 100,000 acre-feet of water appreciate, in both forethought and after­ s!c:·age. thought, that water resources are relevant to 1348 Supply [28 OcTOBER 1976] (Estimates)

productivity and the development of resources The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: Order! for the achievement and fulfilment of a nat­ I would remind the honourable member ion's potential. If he reflects upon that fact, he that we are debating the Estimates of the will realise that a thing is a resource because Minister for Water Resources and the it can be put to good use. In intimating administration of the department. that productivity is totally irrelevant to re­ sources, he is completely missing the point Mr. K. J. Hooper: Are you having trouble and sticking to the letter of the law. with your water?

Mr. JENSEN: I rise to a point of order. Mr. BYRNE: I have no difficulties with I didn't refer to anything of the sort. The my water. honourable member is still on his feet, Mr. Kaus. You should make him sit down while Again I would ask: if water could be I am taking my point of order. taken to the western side of the Great Dividing Range, would it not mean that the lands to our west would be more pro­ The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. ductive? Obviously the answer is yes. As Kaus): Order! What is the point of order? the population of the world increases and as Australia takes upon itself a greater Mr. JENSEN: The honourable member responsibility to provide food and resources has cast a slur on me. He claims I made to other nations, we must think ahead and a statement that I did not make. I want plan to put into effect ideas such as the him to apologise, and also to speak to the one I am putting forward. Estimates. He is wasting the time of the The department has a responsibility in Committee. respect of the Great Artesian Basin. It is important that we understand how the waters The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: Order! came to be in the basin and consider how to There is no point of order. utilise them to the best advantage. Recently I attended a seminar held on Mr. BYRNE: I am sorry if such few the Darling Downs, in the Cunningham words slander such a great gentleman! electorate, dealing with the conservation of It is important that we appreciate our water in the black-soil areas of the Downs nation's capacity to produce. More fore­ for grain cultivation. It was interesting thought must be given to water resources. to learn that by the digging and formation of what are commonly referred to as turkey If consideration has not already been given tanks-enormous reservoirs of 40 acres or to the idea that I am about to put forward, more-the effective rainfall in the area can it certainly should be given to it now. l be increased by from 3 to 5 in. a year. suggest that water be taken from the eastern By digging a turkey tank of some 40 acres, side of the Great Dividing Range to th;: the iandholder was able to catch all the western side. If we allow water to run water that ran off a 1,000 acre property; off the eastern side of the range and be that is, the excess that could not be absorbed lost, we are not looking wisely to the future. by the land. With a system of storage and If water could be taken into the 24 in. gravity pumps, in times of low rainfall rainfall belt and put to use to increase our the crops are given sufficient regular mois­ productivity, we would be able to bring ture to ensure that they are not detri­ about great changes in our western areas. mentally affected. This principle, which Honourable members smile at my sugges­ operates at private-enterprise level, is one tion and no doubt think it is absurd. Such that the department should bear in mind. claims of absurdity are similar to those made It must be aware that conservation and the to certain ideas put forward in the past-ideas greatest possible utilisation of the natural that in later times found fulfilment. resource of water must be fully pursued. No-one can deny that if water could be I repeat that this Government is totally taken to the lands on the western side of a ware that water is one of the greatest the Great Dividing Range, they would be natural resources of this country. Unfortun­ much more productive than at present. ately, it is not an enormously plentiful raw material in Queensland. Therefore, the Opposition Members interjected. department's administration must come to a greater realisation of its importance and ensure that the water nature provides us with Mr. BYRNE: Opposition members are not is utilised for the benefit of the whole State interested in anything west of the Great and not allowed to run off our ranges and Dividing Range. They have not shown very hills, down our rivers and out into the sea. much interest in the productivity of the State. I &'11 aware that only three Opposi­ Almost every year we are afflicted by tion members have spoken to these Estimates. floods that bring with them great devastation. They have shown as little interest in this They a~so bring the necessary rainfall that debate as they have in others. is required. Of course, they are frequently Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates) 1349 the aftermath of much-needed rainfall. How­ evening, but that does not worry me one ever, millions upon millions of gallons of little bit because I am delighted to stay here water, after having left a trail of damage, as long as honourable members like. Appar­ flow out into the sea. Having allowed that ently we have a lot more speakers than was resource to dissipate, without a great deal originally thought, so I would like to reply of forethought, we are then left waiting for to some of the honourable members who have the rains to come again. As much as spoken. possible, we must preserve the water that falls on both sides of our range. We must Mr. Moore interjected. realise that the preservation of this natural resource is something to which we must Mr. N. T. E. HEWITT: You can go back give greater attention. to Windsor. I will be all right in my area.

Over hundreds of years of its existence­ The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN {Mr. both prior to and after its habitation by Kaus): Order! Europeans-what is now known as Queens­ land has been renowned for the droughts that it has experienced. When we realise Mr. N. T. E. HEWITT: If the honourable that, surely we cannot let year after year member for Windsor wants to talk in that pass without giving a greater amount of fore­ fashion, I will leave it to his electorate. thought to planning water conservation and The contention of the honourable member to spreading the resource further over our for Bundaberg that the Emerald scheme was State. not viable is incorrect. Mr. Jensen: We can't get enough money The joint report of the Irrigation and now to complete the schemes that have Water Supply Commission and the Depart­ already been started. ment of Primary Industries, on which the Commonwealth grant of $20,000,000 was Mr. BYRNE: I accept the honourable made, showed the scheme to have a benefit­ member's interjection and point out that it cost ratio of in excess of unity, the ratio is indeed difficult to find the necessary funds. normally regarded as being viable. If priorities can be established and if mem­ With regard to the comment that the bers such as the honourable member for Emerald scheme should not have been com­ Bundaberg would work harder in trying to menced before Bundaberg, I would point out convince Governments and others of the that the Emerald scheme was approved by the importance of gaining funds for water con­ Parliament on 28 March 1968, while the servation, far more would be achieved. Bundaberg scheme was not approved until 22 October 1970. When we consider the production of A condition of the grant which the Com­ hydroelectricity, it is obvious that water has monwealth Government made for Fairbairn other potential uses. In the Eton Irrigation Dam was that the State should accept re­ Scheme we have seen the establishment of sponsibility for the reticulation works below aquatic recreation facilities in conjunction the dam. This situation exists today. with water conservation. When speaking in the debate on the relevant Bill last year, I The member for Bundaberg suggests that referred to the great importance the Govern­ work on Emerald should cease in order to ment placed on having recreation facilities enable work to be expedited on Bundaberg. in areas where water is stored-water that is If priorities were given on basis of time of available to assist in achieving greater approval, then his suggestion would mean a productivity for the nation's primary concentration on the Emerald scheme. industries. The member for Bundaberg has suggested that the second grant of $4,400,000 towards I conclude by congratulating the Minister Monduran Dam could have been expended in on the advances that have been made possible 12 months. When this additional grant was by his work and that of his departmental made, it was offered over two years. The officers in the time since these Estimates offer was, however, made 12 to 18 months were last debated. However, I stress most after it was first requested and when the fervently the absolute importance-perhaps grant finally was made, inflation had pushed more in this area of Government responsi­ the cost much higher and made the $4,400,000 bility. than in any other-of forethought, extra grant quite inadequate. planmng and an awareness of the responsi­ The member made reference to the grants bility that devolves upon Governments in made by the Whitlam Labor Government, Australia to provide the water required in but what he did not mention was the default the future for the production of sufficient of that same Government in meeting one primary .produce to feed our own people third of the cost of Glenlyon Dam. This and to discharge our responsibility to provide default required the New South Wales and food for others in the world. Queensland Governments each to meet an extra $3,000,000 towards the scheme. This Hon. N. T. E. HEWITT (Auburn-Min­ default has made the task of my Government ister for Water Resources) (5.50 p.m.): No in financing water-conservation works more doubt the debate will go on long into the difficult over the past few years. 1350 Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates)

It was also suggested that the Irrigation Initially the Liberal-National PaJ;.ty Gov­ Commission is working on too many schemes ernment established a national water resources and not completing any. Schemes completed fund for such grants. Queensland received a in recent years include: Maroon Dam in very significant proportion of the funds 1974, the St. George area extension scheme allocated. Grants have been provided for a and Upper Warrill Valley diversion scheme specific amount of money for specific works. in 1975, and Baralaba Weir, Bingegang Weir, The Commonwealth has also considered a Julius Dam and Glenlyon Dam in the cur· proportional assistance for flood mitigation rent year. works and some finance has been granted. I greatly appreciate the comments of Several requests have been made for assist­ the member for Isis and particularly his ance in various areas during the last year. statements about possible industry assistance The Prime Minister has advised that, owing in financing the Bundaberg scheme. The to economic conditions, the Commonwealth Irrigation Commission will continue to dis­ is unable to allocate additional funds in cuss this possibility with interested people, 1976-77. but the honourable member will appreciate that, with the limited funds available to the There are at present no formal guide-lines State, it is not possible to give a positive for processing these applications. Members indication as to when water will be made of the Australian Water Resources Council available to particular sections of the area. have been pressing the chairman, the Honour· able D. Anthony, to consider future finance The member's comments on the recreat­ and guide-lines. In reply to the statement ional facilities at Monduran Dam are much by the member for Rockhampton, I would appreciated and I will see what can be done reaffirm that the Irrigation and Water Supply about the parking problem he recently exper­ Commission's role in matters such as this ienced. is defined clearly in the Local Government Stocking of dams with fish has been under Act. The latter requires that when a local review for some years but we do not have authority seeks permission to divert water a suitable species of fish to be readily intro­ from a particular stream, the commission duced. The Fisheries Service is looking at shall report on the availability of water for the problem but no easy solution exists. diversion. In the case of Tewah Creek, the The member for Isis raised the matter of commission reported that water in excess of the Maryborough area investigation. This requirements was available to meet the needs investigation is proceeding and I hope to be of the water supply scheme proposed by the able to put a report to Cabinet in the not Widgee Shire CounciL Subsequently an too distant future. Order in Council authorising the diversion was issued several weeks before the Tewah The need for the completion of Stage II Creek area was declared to be part of the of the Leslie Dam, as raised by the member Cooloola National Park. for Cunningham, is recognised by the Gov­ ernment. This project has been listed for It was suggested that there was a need some years as one of those requiring con­ for an environmental impact statement. sideration for finance. Approaches to the Basically, the development proposed relates Commonwealth Government for finance have to a subdivision proposal and, if an environ­ to date not been successful and, from the mental impact statement is required, it is a recent comments of the Honourable the Min­ matter for the locaJl authority to require it. ister for National Resources, it would seem In reply to the honourable member for unlikely they will assist in the future. As Ipswich West-The recreational use of stor­ State funds become available, further consid­ age reservoirs has been given considerable eration will be given to a commencement of thought in recent years. It is unfortunate that this project but no firm construction time­ problems have arisen between the various table can be indicated at this stage. forms of boat users on storages but, in the The honourable member for Maryborough main, these result from lthe failure of referred to investigations into barrages and individuals to comply with the rules channels on the Mary River downstream of developed in conjunction with the Department Borumba Dam. The report is being actively of Harbours and Marine. In consultation processed in conjunction with information with the latter department, areas have been from the Department of Primary Industries defined on individual storages for particular and it is expected that a full report will be activities such as sailing, water skiing, power available early in 1977. boating, etc. The honourable member for Maryborough If the public at large complies with the sought advice on the basis on which funds rules developed, there seems no reason why are provided by the Commonwealth Govern­ various boating activities cannot proceed on ment. In the past, projects of considered the same storage. The member's suggestion national importance were evaluated by the that a particular storage be set aside purely State Government and priorities determined. for sai:ling would no doubt be strongly Detailed reports and submissions have been criticised by other boat users. submitted to the Commonwealth for exam­ For the member's information, Somerset ination by the relative Commonwealth Dam does not come under the control of departments. the Irrigation and Water Supply Commission. Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates) 1351

The honourable member for Rockhampton mitigation and poor local drainage in the North referred to Commonwealth money. North Queensland area. These problems are Let me say that Commonwealth money recognised. The Government has recently remaining from the $17,200,000 allocated to received from consulting engineers a report Bundaberg was about $22,000 as at June that deals with the problem and works needed 1976. To complete the installation and test­ to solve it. The report dealt only with local ing of the pumps at Monduran Dam and drainage, and major flood mitigation works extend the Gin Gin main channel, an will also be required. additional $1,200,000 has been allocated from [Sitting suspended from 6 to 7.15 p.m.] State funds for 1976-77 to enable the existing work-force to be retained. In addition, $2,645,000 has been allocated to irrigation Mr. N. T. E. HEWITT: Before the dinner works in the area, which wilil allow comple­ recess I was referring to the remarks of the tion of the Burnett barrage to concrete crest honourable member for Mulgrave. To assess level and expand channelling in the what will be involved in the area a further Gooburrum system, including the pump study is now being commissioned. When the station, and allow resumptions to commence latest report comes to hand, the over-all on the Woongarra system. content of the project will be closely evaluated. He also referred to the Kinchant Dam. The Commonwealth money remaining there The honourable member for Townsville from the $5,000,000 allocated was about West suggests that permission be given for $850,000 at June 1976. To maintain the water sports on the Ross River Dam. This current work-force of about 30 men and to dam is owned and controlled by the Towns­ permit steady progress, the Government has ville City Council. While the storage in the allocated a further $400,000 of State funds Ross River Dam should be ample for several to this project. I am most conscious of the years, the commission is continuing investiga­ need to do everything possible to retain tions into further storages in the region. the commission's skilled staff. We realise The honourable member for Landsborough that we have employed many of those men expressed surprise that the Moreton Regional for a number of years and we do not like Water Authority was being introduced under losing them. the control of the Minister for Local In reply to the honourable member for Government. The authority will allocate Mt. !sa-although several applications have treated water in bulk to various local been made to the Commonwealth Govern­ authorities. The allocation of raw water ment for financial assistance, they have not supply will be subject to recommendations as yet been successful. Certainly no finance by the Commissioner of Irrigation as provided is available at this stage for 1976-77. I will for under the Local Government Act. Con­ certainly continue to support him in his sequently, it is reasonable that the Minister approach to the Commonwealth Government. for Local Government be associated with the new authority. The honourable member also The honourable member for Redlands referred to the replenishment of the artesian referred to the water resources of Stradbroke basin assessed at about 160 000 M! per Island. Withdrawal of water on the island annum. Artificial recharge of the basin is is subject to control and 1licensing, as the not practicable because of the extreme area has been proclaimed a subartesian area. length of recharge beds which feed the basin. As to the Leslie Harrison Dam-it is not The honourable member for Callide refer­ under the control of the commission; it is red to water storage in his electorate, and as under local authority control. one who lives in the Rockhampton district and was very closely associated with both the The problems of the dairying industry in Dawson and Callide valleys, I naturally take the Mary Valley are appreciated and his point. We have always said that the recognised. Callide Dam gates will be constructed but, like everything else, it is a matter of the The honourable member for Toowoomba availability of funds. When those funds are South referred to the subsidy level on the available this project will be completed. As proposed Cressbrook Creek Dam. That is a I indicated earlier, there are many projects matter for my colleagues the Minister for throughout Queensland which have been Local Government and Main Roads and the hampered by lack of funds, and the gates of Treasurer. The matter of a water supply for the Callide Dam are only suffering the same the development of the MUIImerran coal-field fate as many other projects. is being examined. The honourable member for Carnarvon Mr. MOORE (Windsor) (7.19 p.m.): In referred to the benefits obtained from the rising to speak to these Estimates, I would Glenlyon Dam and other projects in his area. first of all, for the benefit of readers of Naturally, he can be assured of my co-opera­ "Hansard", like to list the areas encompassed tion in any representations he makes. by the Minister's portfolio. They are: bores, including the construction of some bores; The honourable member for Mulgrave farm water supplies; the subdivision of free­ referred to problems associated with flood hold land for irrigation areas; major dams 1352 Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates) for urban water supply purposes; treatment On the credit side, I must commend th~t works; private works; pumps; weirs; water Minister for the work that has been done in courses; levy banks, etc. The quarrying of providing facilities in the vicinity of various material from watercourses also comes under weirs and dams such as the Fairbairn Dam the Minister's responsibility, although it does and the Moogerah Dam. Those who have not cover those watercourses under the established the barbecues and the parking responsibility of the Department of Harbours areas and provided bins to encourage cleanli­ and Marine. The Minister is also concerned ness are to be congratulated. It appears that with surface and underground water resour­ the public responds when good facilities are ces, water conservation and irrigation. That provided, because one can go to virtually any fairly broad compass will indicate to those of these areas and see very little litter lying honourable members who have in the past about. I am aware that someone is employed risen to points of order while I have been to cut the grass and pick up the litter, but speaking that I can cover a fairly broad the general tidiness of the areas is a credit canvas. to the people who use them. I again com­ mend the Irrigation and Water Supply Com­ Mr. K. J. Hooper: You wield a nice brush. mission for the job it is doing. Every person to whom I have spoken who has visited dams Mr. MOORE: Yes, I think it is a rather and weirs as places of recreation has com­ good one. mented favourably on them, and I think it The first thing that comes to my mind is is only fair that I should pass on those the rather parochial matter of Kedron Brook. comments. A really good job is being done. I know that while the Minister is not directly responsible for flood-mitigation work-that It might be said that the constructing comes under the Co-ordinator General's authority has completed its job when the Department-there is more to flood preven­ dam or weir has been constructed. Water is tion than that. being held back and used for irrigation and other purposes, and the commission really In Kedron Brook, sand has been carried has no further responsibility. However, it down by the water and deposited. It has has accepted a responsibility that might well increased inch by inch, year by year, have fallen on the Tourist Bureau or the until there are now sandbanks in the vicin­ local authority, and that is really to the ity of Lutwyche Road. Because of lack of credit of the Government and the com­ attention, gum trees are growing on these mission. sandbanks. As there is a shortage of gravel for use in the making of concrete, I should In addition, of course, some attempt has like to think that contracts could be let for been made to introduce various fish to the the removal of sand and gravel from Kedron dams under the Minister's control, and cer­ Brook. This would not only clean out the tain people have been given a licence to fish. creek, but also put the sand and gravel to However, in the time that I have known good use. Moogerah Dam, I do not know of anyone who has caught a fish there-licence or no When I was a child living near Kedron licence. I do not know whether fish are Brook, the stream flowed directly under breeding in that area. the bridge on Lutwyche Road. Today it flows under the bridge only because There is always a problem with dams that several wooden piles have been driven into supply water for human consumption. Very the ground to divert the water 90°. That will few dams in Queensland supply untreated give the Committee an indication of how the or lightly treated water to consumers. I watercourse has changed. But for the piles think that Gold Creek Reservoir and one or and rock-fill, a new bridge would have to two other storage areas do that, but generally be constructed. The creek bed has shifted speaking the water supply for human con­ more than 20 metres. sumption is chlorinated so that its consump­ Worse than that is the fact that my con­ tion causes no problems. stituents who live on the banks of Kedron Mr. Goleby: Would you like to see Brook are paying rates on the creek bed. swimming allowed in the Gold Creek Reser­ Work has not been carried out on the banks voir? to ensure that the slope is correct-! forget the angle; I think it should be about 25° from the plane of the water-and that when Mr. MOORE: Yes. We are going to close additional water comes down, the rise will it down, anyway. I will come to that in a be gradual and the banks will not be eroded. moment. That work is necessary, but it has not been When water from a dam is being used for done. It is said by some people that it is a human consumption, there is always a prob­ Brisbane City Council responsibility. If it is lem if there is housing development in the a council responsibility, why does the coun­ watershed. Effluent from septic systems can cil have to apply to the Irrigation and Water be a cause for concern. Pig-farming and Supply Commission for permission to do lot-feeding of cattle can pose problems. The this or that? It should not need that per­ odours that can come from some of those mission. But if permission must be granted, places would make even my hair curl. It the council should be given carte blanche to is understandable that water leaching through tackle the problem facing my constituents. that type of country wou1d not be of a Supply [28 ()crQBER 1976] (Estimates) 1353 very high quality. Necessary precautions if it comes from rain falling on Australia, must be taken but these can be restrictive and the aquifers are in the Gulf country, the on people who have lived in the area all construction of low-level concrete dams, say, their lives. And when their land is resumed 6 or 10 ft. high and 200 km long with an the compensation paid is never in my opinion earth-bank backing could help retain water in adequate. Of course, it is paid out of tax­ the areas covering the aquifers so that it payers' money, and it is not for the Govern­ would have time to filter through to the ment to hand it out too freely. But when artesian or sub-artesian systems. I realise, of someone loses something for the public course, that in the West the rate of evapor­ good, whether it be for a dam, a road or ation is a problem. It is 33 to 35 per cent anything else, I like to think that the Govern­ faster than in South-east Queensland. I do ment errs on the side of generosity. not know whether water filters through the porous bauxite in the Weipa area. In the Without doubt water supply will eventually wet season, of course, the water-table is become a problem in this nation. Australia about 6 ft. below the surface. I do not know is a reasonably dry country. The day will whether it is replenished that way as well. come when the Government will have to think about some form of recycling. I do We have to use every scientific method not fancy the idea of recycling sewage, and and all the ingenuity at our command to then someone saying, "Here is a nice glass replenish underground water supplies. Pop­ of sparkling water." One day we will have ulation will never be attracted to any part to run a dual system--one for sewage and of the country unless there is an assured one for other sullage. The recycled water water supply. If a water supply is established will come from the other sullage, not from anywhere-whether it be in the West, the the sewage. But that is something for the North or somewhere else-people will be future. enticed to go there. However, people can­ not be encouraged to live in arid country. In the future, hinterland areas are going to It is foreign to us. need more water. The cities are continually The fertile heavy black-soil country round making an enormous drain on the available Julia Creek, with adequate water, could water supply. Various surveys have been become the prairies of Australia. It does not made of natural water catchments but we suffer from any leaching. The country is are fast running out of areas for the com­ fertile to the nth degree. With some form of paratively easy storage of water. I can irrigation-if the underground water supplies foresee the day when dams will be used to are adequate and if the soda content can be divert water inland for the cultivation of filtered out-I can see the day when that fodder for livestock and of wheat, vegetables type of country will be growing crops for and other foodstuffs for humans. this nation and for export. With modern technology large-scale de­ The Wivenhoe Dam is a very necessary salination is around the co'rner. Mangroves project. It will have two purposes. It will grow in salt water yet, by the use of a mitigate a!!ainst flooding and save homes built membrane, absorb not salt water but fresh on the Brisbane flood plain over the years water: In their own sweet little way they are by people who believed that an 1893-type flood carryrng on a process of desalination. It would never occur again. Of course it has. could well be that this nation will have to Those circumstances will arise again and think of desalination, not by using atomic again. Geologists who have looked at our energy to boil the water and convert it into layers of soil can tell us that there was a steam and then condense it-that would not flood in a certain year-lOO years before, be. feasible in the long term-but perhaps by 40 years before and so on. The Wivenhoe usmg solar energy. I can foresee the time Dam will also provide water for Brisbane's when water that is presently used by the needs. In addition, through the use of off­ cities will have to be diverted inland and peak electricity, water can be pumped back the cities and towns along the seaboard will into the storage and then used again for the have to obtain their water from the sea. generation of power in peak periods. (Time expired.) In the recent floods in North-western Queensland, particularly in the Gulf country, Mr. GIDBS (Albert) (7.38 p.m.): It is my where stock were forced to remain standin"' pleasure tonight to support the Honourable in water for as long as a week, with th~ Nev Hewitt in the debate on the Water result that their hoofs fell off, it was found Resources Estimates. Australians take too that the Mt. Isa railway line, which is raised much for granted about the ease of getting 2 ft. above ground level, became in effect water. They expect, when they switch on a a low-level wall, forming a vast lake. tap, to have water flow from it. We know I was not present during the speech of the that in the Moreton region the water supply honourable member for Landsborough, but will be the factor that restrains growth-and I understand that he referred to replenishment of course this is the fastest growing area in of the aquifers. I do not know where the Queensland. underground water comes from-I have The central, northern and western areas of heard it suggested that it seers underground Queensland are tremendously dry. In the from Indonesia, where it falls as rain-but long run, water will be one of the most 1354 Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates)

important commodities in the growth of Water is a commodity that is needed by Queensland and in deciding how and where the community and, as the land is resumed it is going to grow. In the long term an for the benefit of the users, they should be onerous responsibility rests with the Irrigation prepared to pay adequate compensation for and Water Supply Commission. It is obvious the resumptions through water rates. from the annual report that a tremendous amount of work has been done on water I congratulate the Minister and his com­ resources, rin particular where it can be mission on the manner in which they are obtained and when it will be available. I discharging their responsibility for the con­ repeat that one thing the Australian takes too struction of the Wivenhoe Dam. It is a much for granted is that he will get water very exciting project and it will mean much whenever he turns on a tap. in the long term. H was interesting to hear the Minister The inland area of Queensland has a say- great potential. The Bradfield report has "The Co-ordinator-General has delegated been mentioned. I have not studied it and to the commissioner powers and duties for I do not know whether the proposal to the resumption of lands for and the design divert the rivers to the Inland is practicable. and construcbion of the Wivenhoe Dam on I believe that the Government has a great the Brisbane River and Splityard Creek responsibility to study these concepts to Dam, the storage for the associated pumped ascertain if it is possible to increase the storage/hydroelectric project." productivity of Queensland in the long term by adopting the proposals. If the Govern­ This is a tremendously important project for ment is planning now, it should be planning Brisbane and surrounding areas, my own for 30, 50 or 100 years ahead, taking into electorate, Woodridge in the electorate of account projections of population growth the honourable member for Salisbury, King­ and trying to find the solution to the problem ston and into Slacks Creek-in fact, all of feeding these people. the northern part of the Albert Shire. Certain outer suburbs of Brisbane used to Over the years there have been tremendous grow large quantities of fruit and vegetables. problems in obtaining sufficient water from These areas are being broken up for housing the Brisbane City Council for these areas. and much productivity is being lost to closer I hope that the authority responsible for settlement. It will be necessary to look the distribution of the water from the new further afield for areas in which there is dam, whether it is the Brisbane City Council, plenty of water, good soil and a suitable the Irrigation and Water Supply Commission, climate for the production of food for the or some other authority, plans well so that people. A very serious problem will arise in water will be made available on a year­ the long term if most of our people continue round basis, so that people can water their to concentrate on the coastal fringe and gardens and have pride in their homes, those who produce food have to move and not only during periods when rainfall is further out to the drier areas. plentiful. Mr. Goleby: Don't you think farmers When resumptions are made for the Wiven­ should be able to cash in on the land boom hoe Dam, I hope that there will be an if they are in the right position? adequate amount of land in the catchment areas so that there will be no problems from silt and pollution. In the past it Mr. GIBBS: No-one would deny that. But was the practice to purchase the minimum it is a fact that areas that were productive amount of land when dams, reservoirs, and are being used for housing. It is a pity that other water-storage facilities were being this is taking place in the Redlands electorate, built. Neighbouring piggeries and banana where some of the best fruit and vegetables farms and the spraying of heavy poisons in Australia are produced. Much of that created great problems. This happened also produce goes to the southern market. at the Little Nerang Dam because insuf­ ficient land was purchased. It was possible Perhaps we could give some thought to to make this area free of pollution, but the reasons behind the subdivision of such only after much work. It was possible to land. Perhaps some of the fault lies with purchase much more land around the the system under which land is valued on Advancetown Dam to keep the catchment potential. This means in many cases that in the complete control of the authority. I people are valued out of their areas. This hope that the resumptions for the Wivenhoe is another matter that we could perhaps Dam and all future water storage facilities study closely to try to save these areas for will include adequate land in the surrounding longer periods than they seem to be safe areas. now. This is all the more reason why we should be planning ahead and deciding where It is interesting to note that resumptions sufficient food can be grown to feed our­ to enable the construction of these dams are selves and to allow us to do our share in done by negotiations. I have found that feeding the world. We have the land and the the authorities have been very fair, and in know-how necessary to grow food for over­ fact in some instances over generous, in the seas consumption if only we can produce it valuations and the prices paid. cheaply enough. Supply [28 OcTOBER 1976] (Estimates) 1355

There are some interesting developments in Mr. N. T. E. Hewitt: I know you are irrigation at Gilston, near Southport, where always sincere in your approach. lettuce are being grown by hydroponics. Beautiful lettuce are being grown above Mr. MULLER: Yes. I refer here specifically ground in water containing the necessary to Mr. Learmonth and the late Mr. Fred plant foods. Perhaps this is the method of Haigh. the future where there is lots of water but the ground is poor. It is a method that has As has been said by many speakers today, a considerable amount of merit. As long as the conservation of our water resources is stands can be built and water is available, vital to the development of the State. It is vegetables could be grown by hydroponics rather staggering to see from the figures in where the land may be the poorest on earth. the 197 6 annual report of the commission I think strawberries are being cultivated in the contribution that has been made to the this way in the Redlands electorate at this economic situation by the development of moment. Perhaps it may be possible to our water resources. I think it is occasionally cultivate plants in this way in areas where appropriate to quote statistics. I am not the land is poor and keep the industry going telling members anything new when l say that in such areas. this is a vast State. The Year Book shows that Queensland has an area of l 728 000 sq I congratulate the Minister and his depart­ km. The report indi~ates that only 1 232 sq ment on the fine job that they have done. It km are under irrigation. Breaking down the is obvious from the annual report that good figures in order to ascertain the merit of work has been done over many years. It is irrigation, we find that the area irrigated is a department that is very productive. It keeps 0.13 per cent of the total area being utilised close control over rivers and streams. I for rural purposes, but by virtue of the fact observe that there are quite a lot of pumping that it is irrigated this 0.13 per ce.nt produced permits in force for the Logan River. I think 20.4 per cent of the total rural production there may still be some on the Coomera of the State. Although I am usually dis­ River. The department has always maintained inclined to quote statistics, that is one set of a close eye on all that is going on, to make figures we should all note. sure that there is sufficient water for all. It sees that everything works properly and that I now wish to refer to my own locality, no one tries to outdo anyone else. where I have had some practical experience of the effectiveness of irrigation. There is In the long term, the department has a no doubt that it changes the life-style of tremendous responsibility in the planning of people. I am fortunate to have two dams the water resources of Queensland to ensure in my electorate. I would like to say to Mr. that the State develops in the right direction Beattie here and now that he will be erring and is able in the long term to produce the in his judgment if he does not build two food needed for Australia and its overseas more in the near future but, of course, that commitments. is beside the point.

Mr. MULLER (Fassifern) (7.49 p.m.): I As honourable members know, until 10 rise to support the Minister in the presentation years ago dairying was a very profitable of his Estimates and to commend his con­ industry but, because of the decline of the tribution to the welfare and development of industry, it was necessary for some dairymen our great State. to change their life-style and to produce commodities which could be marketed econ­ I think it would also be fitting at this stage omically. The farmers in my electorate have if I paid a tribute to Mr. Learmonth, who, done this most successfully, but it has been I understand, is retiring on 31 December possible only because we have an adequate of this year. In my opinion, he has served water supply. The capacity of the area now the commission very effectively for quite a seems to be almost unlimited. I know that is lengthy period and I should like to record a fairly broad statement, but when we see that I wish him a long and happy retirement. the things that our farmers are doing today compared with the methods they applied as I feel also that I should make some refer­ recently as 10 to 15 years ago, it is almost ence to his successor, Mr. Beattie. Mr. beyond comprehension, and I believe that Beattie has been with the commission for it is only the adequacy of our water supply quite some time, and I congratulate him on which allows this to be done. Of course, his appointment as commissioner. He will this applies in many other localities as well. have a very responsible task. I must say that I have had many discussions with Mr. Recently I had the privilege of visiting St. Beattie, and I would not be camouflaging George with the Minister for Primary Indust­ the issue if I were to say that there were ries when he opened a new cotton ginnery. It times when we were not in complete agree­ would have been impossible to establish a ment, although I have always respected his cotton industry in that area until fairly opinion. If at times he disagrees with me, recently because there was not an adequate of course he is obviously wrong, but here water supply. The provision of an adequate again he has his own opinion. I congratulate water supply has made an enormous differ­ him and I trust he will be as effective in the ence to those persons actively engaged in position as were his two predecessors-- the production of cotton, and it seems to me 1356 Supply [28 OCTOBER 1976] (Estimates) that there have been many flow-on benefits. enthusiastic about it. Perhaps they could For example, a great deal of machinery is generate greater enthusiasm by putting their needed for a ginnery, and it must be manu­ money where their mouth is. factured. Naturally enough, it is claimed by the manufacturer, who is an American, In my opinion, the development of irriga­ that the ginnery at St. George is the most tion makes it much more economical to modern in the world. I say "the most meet the requirements of modern markets. modern", not "the largest", because it is by The old idea was-and many honourable no means the largest. The claim is that it is members are well aware of the truth of what equipped with the most modern machinery. I am saying-that it is not economical to produce without irrigation unless you are That development has occurred only growing specialised crops that are suitable because some person had the foresight to for and adapted to a particular locality. On exploit the irrigation potential of the many occasions it is not possible to apply locality, and it was made possible, of course, that policy. Prior to coming into Parlia­ by the conservation of water. As has been ment I was for many years actively engaged said on many occasions, Australia is the in farming, so I know a little of what driest continent. An adequate water supply happens. Experience over a number of years is essential to the development and decen­ showed that a person was fortunate if he tralisation of industry and I say to some of realised one crop out of three. He might the critics of this State that, in spite of get three crops in a row, but then he might some of the statements that have been made, go for a number of years with each and Queensland is not really doing too badly. every crop failing. That did nothing to help anybody. With the exception of Western Australia, The assurance of an adequate water supply Queensland is the largest Australian State, provided by the commission in so many and I think that some figures I have here localities has brought much greater stability might be of interest to the Committee. As I and a happier way of life to many people. said earlier, Queensland is the most decen­ It has contributed a great deal to the life­ tralised State, and only 48 per cent of the style of people in small country centres. Until people reside in the Brisbane statistical area. recently it was impossible to consider sew­ It is worth remembering that figure when erage plants in country areas. Now I know one looks at the figures for other States, of many small towns in my district with which in many instances have been estab­ a population of less than 300 that have lished much longer than Queensland and a water supply and are served by sewerage. think that they are more highly developed. It was only two or three years ago that In New South Wales, 61 per cent of the Brisbane was completely sewered. But for population is within the perimeter of Sydney; the foresight of those who went before us Melbourne has 72.3 per cent of Victoria's who planned such projects I am certain population; Adelaide, 72.9 per cent of South that the life-style of persons in rural areas Australia's population; and Perth, 70.1 per would not be at today's reasonably high cent of Western Australia's population. standard. In my opinion, decentralised development I wish to refer briefly to the commission's can continue in Queensland if Governments, attitude to the economy of the State's pri­ not only now but in the future, have the mary industries. It has given a clear indi­ foresight to develop the State's water cation that it desires to keep down the cost resources. After some of my visits in the of water to rural producers. In my locality, past two or three years to inland and north­ which is served by the Moogerah Dam western areas of the State, I am convinced and the water flowing down Warrill Creek, that with an adequate water supply the the farmers are purchasing water at $3 per potential of the land there would be almost acre-foot or millilitre or whatever the unit unlimited. I know it would be a difficult is at the moment, or $4 per acre-foot out undertaking, but I am sure that in many of the channels. Some people may ask, instances the commission could develop "Why the difference?" The water flowing irrigation projects if money became avail­ down the main stream has a reasonable lift able. If there is any criticism that I could over a 25 ft. bank. Having the water dis­ direct at the Minister it is that he has not tributed through the channels at a price of been able to influence the powers that be to $4 a unit is more economic to the farmer, give him more funds, which he, in turn, because it is delivered to the area where could then direct towards the development it is required. He is adequately compensated of Queensland. for the pumping costs. It has been sug­ gested that there should be an increase in Many statements have been made recently that cost, but I appeal to the commission about the prospects of transporting iron-ore not to entertain that idea. After all, there from Western Australia and taking coal back are so many flow-on benefits. The persons to Western Australia. If that enterprise is engaged in these industries and providing being considered seriously, I point out that vital commodities to great cities such as enormous quantities of water would be Brisbane are providing those commodities needed for it. However, that is something regularly, and the people of the cities bene­ for the future. Some people are very fit. Previously, the supply fluctuated. At Supply (Estimates) [28 OCTOBER 1976] Currumbin Bird Sanctuary Bill 1357 times city-dwellers were paying extremely In one area of the State water is already high prices, and at times the farmers received being diverted across the Great Dividing very low prices. The only time the price Range. I refer, of course, to the Mareeba­ went up in the clouds was when the pro­ Dimbulah area, where water from a coastal ducer did not have the product. The city­ stream, the Barron River, is diverted to the dweller was penalised both ways. Wallsh River catchment area. There are many advantages apart from The honourable member for Fassifern that. Since I entered Parliament I have always makes contributions of a positive and made representations on behalf of many constructive nature. Although he and I may people who have required financial assistance. not agree on everything, he has shown both I can truthfully say that, while I have been this Parliament and me as Minister that in this Assembly, I have not been appealed his ways are very similar to those of his to by any person engaged in primary industry late father, a former Minister for Irrigation. with an adequate supply of irrigated water He was responsible for the construction of available to him who had found it neces­ the Moogerah Dam and he contributed a sary to go beyond the normal recognised great deal to Queensland's dairy industry as channels, such as banks, in search of finance. well as to the State as a whole. I am sure that members of the Labor Party of the day Many suggestions have been put forward would agree that Alf Muller was a straight­ as to the best way of overcoming the problem shooter and one of the hardest-hitting if we are not endowed by nature with a politicians. As I say, even though the present plentiful supply of water. The honourable member for Fassifern and I may not agree member for Windsor referred to desalination. on everything, I know he puts forward what It has been attempted in other countries, but he believes to be right in the interests of his we do not know how effective it would be. electors. It seems that scienco.: has not yet found a The only other speaker was the honour­ practical solution to the problem. able member for Windsor. Let me say to As recently as last year I had the privilege him that I know a little bit about what of visiting Hong Kong with the Minister. water means to people. Having had to bail There I was interested to see a desalination out of an aircraft, being four days without a plant partly in operation. I was informed drink of water or anything to eat, with a that, even in an area such as Hong Kong broken bone in my ankle and having to do that is urgently in need of water, it is not the best I could .to achieve something for possible at present to desalinate satisfactorily. my friends, I say that the honourable mem­ ber need not tell me about the need for Although Hong Kong has an average water. All I say to him is this: I had annual rainfall of 78 inches, the colony is hoped that in the new building I would be so small that it has insufficient run-off to getting a double water-bed, but, as he is on meet the requirements of its huge population. the Parliamentary Building Committee, maybe Consequently the Government was toying I should have bought my palliasse back from with desalination. If there is any place on North Africa. earth where desalination should be practical The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. and economical it is Hong Kong; yet, even Gunn): Order! By agreement, under the pro­ with the necessary expertise to develop its visions of the Sessional Order agreed to by plant, Hong Kong is not able to utilise the House on 19 October, I shall now put desalination satisfactorily. thr questions for the Vote under consider­ Tremendous benefits flow from the harvest­ ation and the balance remaining unvoted for ing of our irrigable waters. The Minister is Water Resources. to be congratulated on the able manner in The questions for the following Votes which he has carried out the duties of his were put, and agreed to- present portfolio. I trust that he will continue Water Resources- to pursue his present attitude to life, from $ which the people of Queensland wiH benefit Department of Irrigation and in the long term. Water Supply 8,375,510 Balance of Vote, Trust and Hon. N. T. E. HEWITT (Auburn­ Special Funds and Loan Minister for Water Resources) (8.8 p.m.): The Fund Account 44,770,788 honourable member for Albert dealt with the Bradfield scheme. Considerable thought has Progress reported. been given to the proposal to divert water from the eastern side of the Great Dividing CURRUMBIN BLRD SANCTUARY BILL Range to the western side in accordance with his scheme. Investigations have shown, how­ SECOND READING ever, that the run-off east of the Great Divide is sufficient only to meet the needs Hon. R. J. HINZE (South Coast-Min­ of the lands to the east of the range. For ister for Local Government and Main this reason it is unlikely that any serious Roads) (8.13 p.m.): I move- consideration will be given to such a scheme "That the Bill be now read a second in the years ahead. time." 1358 Currumbin Bird [28 OCTOBER 1976} Sanctuary Bill

At the introductory stage, I gave hon­ In terms of the agreement. as well as ourable members a full account of events being eligible to receive up to $20,000 a leading up to the introduction of this Bill, year in loan repayments, Mr. Griffiths has a together with a summary of its chief pro­ right to receive superannuation payments and visions. I indicated that the purpose of the other entitlements whilst he is employed as Bill is to empower the National Trust of presiding director and chairman of the Queensland to control or conduct the Cux­ sanctuary board of advice. He also has a rumbin Bird Sanctuary, subject to the re­ right to the use of a home on the site and a quirements of the Bill. These requirements car. A figure of some $10,000 a year, plus deal with such things as the keeping of cost-of-living increases, has been mentioned proper books and accounts, the establish­ as the applicable remuneration. These facts ment of certain funds, the treatment of show that the trust assumt"S substantial surpluses and deficits arising from the oper­ obligations in connection with ii~ control and ations of the sanctuary, and the auditing of management of the sanctuary. the books and accounts by the Auditor­ The honourable member for Toowoomba General. North asked whether the trust would be able I further indicated that an agreement had to meet these obligations. In its discussions been entered into between the National with me, the trust states that it is confident Trust and Mr. Alex Griffiths, the founder of being in a position to conduct the sanc­ of the sanctuary, providing for the transfer tuary on a profitable basis-and of course of the sanctuary to the trust as from the I'm sure all members would hope that this 1 July 1976. Top legal advice to the Crown confidence is proved to be justified. was to the effect that the trust did not have Under the Bill, the financing of the power under the National Trust of Queens­ sanctuary's operations will be a matter land Act to control or conduct the sanctuary, entirely for the National Trust. The intention as outlined in some detail in my introduct­ is that the sanctuary should be self­ ory speech. This Bill is designed to give the supporting. Any surplus that may arise from trust this power, and to obviate costly and the operations of the sanctuary will have to protracted litigation initiated by the trust be used on the maintenance, improvement or in the Supreme Court. enlargement of the sanctuary, unless the prior approval of the Governor in Council is It appeared to surprise a number of hon­ obtained to its use for some other purpose. ourable members that there were certain obligations attaching to the transfer of the A deficit arising from the operations of the sanctuary to the trust by Mr. Griffiths. Some sanctuary will not be capable of being met or financed from moneys received by the members apparently had believed that the National Trust from its general activities sanctuary was transferred to the trust free under the National Trust of Queensland Act. from all encumbrances. It is clear from the agreement executed between Mr. Griffiths This means that if the sanctuary's financial and the trust that this is not the case. operations result in a deficit at the end of a particular financial year, that deficit will have As I mentioned at the introductory stage, to be carried forward and funded in the information supplied to me by the National ensuing financial year. This could be Trust shows that the sanctuary's liabilities at achieved, for example, by the trust's 30 June 1975 were $287,042. I further increasing the admission charge or imposing indicated that Mr. Griffiths has some higher prices for goods sold at the rock shop, $220,000 of his private funds invested in etc. the sanctuary, and provision is made in the The principle that surpluses arising from agreement for these moneys to be repaid the operations of the sanctuary have to be to Mr. Griffiths, upon demand, at a rate of ploughed back into the sanctuary is in up to $20,000 a year. conformity with the agreement executed between Mr. Griffiths and the trust. This The agreement further provides that the provides, amongst other things, that surpluses trust has to discharge certain obligations to are to be applied in the following priorities:- people in New Zealand, to the order of some ( 1) In reducing the liabilites of the $30,000. The land upon which the sanctuary sanctuary; is established is subject to mortgage to the (2) In improving and developing the National Bank of Australasia to the extent sanctuary; and of some $123,000, and it appears that the ( 3) In advancing and promoting the trust will be responsible for the repayment general objects of the sanctuary and of this amount. nature conservation generally. Currumbin Bird (28 OCTOBER 1976] Sanctuary Bill 1359

As mentioned in my introductory speech, the been a gift. It certainly took some of the Bill provides that one of the objects of the shine off the gift for many Opposition mem­ National Trust, under the National Trust of bers, as I am sure it did for many Govern­ Queensland Act, is declared to be, and to ment members who may not have known of have always been, to control and conduct those debts. the Currumbin Bird Sanctuary in the form But yesterday morning Mr. Griffiths made in which it is conducted immediately before it quite plain in "The Courier-Mail" that what the coming into force of the legislation. The the Minister had said was not true-in his intention of this provision was to ensure that opinion, at any rate. I must make the point the sanctuary venture will continue to be that the figures quoted by the Minister were conducted as such. as at 30 June 1975, not 30 June 1976. What The Bill goes on to provide, however, that does Mr. Griffiths say in reply to what the nothing contained therein will be deemed to Minister said last Tuesday evening? I quote restrict the authority of the trust in its from "The Courier-Mail" of yesterday, 27 conduct of the sanctuary, to cease any October- commercial undertaking operated therein, or " Mr. Griffiths said the bird sanctuary to introduce a new commercial undertaking had 'nothing like' liabilities of $287,042. if, in its opinion, that step is in keeping with " 'When I handed it over as a going the proper conduct and the best interests of concern, it had only the small liabilities the sanctuary. of any small business,' Mr. Griffiths said. It could be contended that the provision of "Mr. Griffiths said he had been given the Bill which provides that the sanctuary is the house at the sanctuary." to be conducted in its present form might It will be remembered that we were told inhibit the taking of action by the National that he had the use of a car. Mr. Griffiths Trust to liquidate companies established by says that he owns the car. He also says that the founder of the sanctuary to control its he is having the use of the house. operations. As I mentioned in my intro­ ductory speech, it is envisaged that the trust We were also told that Mr. Griffiths was might desire to take this action, and have to receive a salary or remuneration of the sanctuary lands vested in the National $10,000 a year. Mr. Griffiths says that that Trust as registered proprietor. The trust is not so. He, of course, is open to question­ would then conduct the sanctuary in its own ing whereas what is said in this House is name. not. Sometimes I think it is most unfortunate that people outside Parliament have no To cla11ify that the trust will have the redress, for statements made in the House power to liquidate any of the prescribed cannot be questioned by people outside. At companies, I foreshadow an appropriate least they should have some legal right to do amendment of clause 13 of the Bill at the something about what is said here. On the Committee stage. other hand, Mr. Griffiths is making a state­ ment in the public Press. The Press report I think the Bill gives the National Trust adequate powers for it to control or conduct goes on- the sanctuary. The ball is at the feet of the "No set salary has been agreed on with National Trust, and I wish it well in its the trust for his caretaking job, he said." venture. Mr. K. J. Hooper: Somebody is telling lies.

Mr. MARGINSON (Wolston) (8.20 p.m.): Mr. MARGINSON: There is a great differ­ Since honourable members spoke on this Bill ence between the two versions. There is last Tuesday night there have been published certainly something wrong here. some discrepancies between the Minister's Mr. Griffiths is reported as saying, "I statement of the liabilities of Mr. Griffiths certainly did not receive $20,000 for debts. and Mr. Griffiths' reply in which he set out That is ludicrous." That is how he put it. what his liabilities in fact are. The Minister told us that $287,042 was owing by the He went on to say- sanctuary. He also said that there was a "The only commitment with loan repay­ mortgage of $123,000 to the National Bank ments is with the bank for a new kiosk of Australia and that some people in New we built last year." Zealand were owed $30,000. Those state­ The final paragraph commences- ments, if correct, naturally took quite a lot ·'Mr. Griffiths said he had been living off of the shine off what was supposed to have undistributed profits of the sanctuary ..." 1360 Currumbin Bird [28 OCTOBER 1976] Sanctuary Bill

It is rather disturbing to me that on the a committee, had done, and what the Gold introduction of a Bill Parliament is told Coast City Council had done, for Mr. certain things and the very next morning, Griffiths. when we rise from our beds to read the But we still claim that there is something Brisbane newspaper, we read that the man wrong which has not been brought out into in question completely denies them. All I the open. I think that this Government can say is that the figures quoted here were has a strange desire to rush into litigation as at 30 June 1975 and it is now October on almost anything that it does not agree 1976. I am sorry that these discrepancies with. If the citizens of our State or people have arisen and, if neither version is true, I outside Queensland doubt, contradict or hope that someone is able to tell us what is express an opinion contrary to that of the the truth. Government, it immediately rushes into liti­ Of course, I have to remind the House gation; but on this occasion the Government that this whole matter is subject to litigation. forced the trust to enter into litigation. I feel that I know why this legislation is Mr. Lindsay: Where did you get all this being put through the House in a matter wrong information from? of 72 hours. We are gning into recess this evening for a week, I understand, and Mr. MARGINSON: Listen to that galah! naturally the Minister wants the matter The honourable member does not even know cleared up before the litigation gets com­ what he is talking about. pletely out of hand. I still charge the Govern­ Mr. Byrne: Answer the question. ment with bringing down the Bill as a face­ saving measure. I think it has in fact gnt Mr. MARGINSON: I received information itself tied up. from the trust, from the newspapers and from discussions with people associated with I think it was the honourable member for the trust. I ask Government members who Albert who said, "We are trying to help the speak after me tonight to endeavour to keep trust." If that was in fact the Government's to the Bill and explain the things that we intention, it had available to it two legal have inquired about. During the Committee opinions by Queen's Counsel. One was that stage I intend to speak to some of the the Act did not empower the Government to clauses of the Bill. undertake a venture of this nature. The trust's Queen's Counsel said that it could be Mr. LOWES (Brisbane) (8.28 p.m.): I am done under the Act, so there was a doubt. pleased to support the Minister and I will If the Government was trying to help the assist in any way I can to facilitate Mr. trust, all that it needed to do to clear up that Griffiths' wish to make what is in fact a legal doubt was to amend the Act under magnanimous gift to the National Trust of which the trust is constituted. I feel that the Queensland, which is really the people of Government is not helping the trust as much Queensland and this Government, because it as it would be expected to. is the people of Queensland represented by this Government who will be the beneficiaries The two speakers who followed me in of this gift. the introductory debate-the honourable I have had the advantage of seeing some members for Surfers Paradise and Albert­ of the material, and I am able to assure the both live in the locality in which the sanc­ honourable member for Wolston that the tuary is situated. I fully expected that they facts are very clear. I hope to outline some would keep to the Bill and tell us some­ of them in my speech tonight. thing about the litigation which has been worrying us and whether the Government On 24 June this year Mr. Griffiths executed is treating the trust fairly. From one of a deed by which he purported to transfer and them-the honourable member for Surfers assign to the National Trust of Queensland Paradise-we got a very nice description of all his interest in the property which we how the sanctuary started, but he said noth­ know generailly as the Currumbin Bird ing at all about the Bill. Sanctuary. He wished, in executing that deed, to preserve that area in perpetuity for The other speaker, the honourable mem­ the benefit of people generally. It is quite a ber for Albert, apart from talking about normal deed. It is the type of deed that galahs-I suppose any clown can do that one would expect of a man who has a even though he does not have a cap-­ successful business and, because of increasing told us what he, I think as chairman of years, decides that he will get out of it Currumbin Bird (28 OCTOBER 1976} Sanctuary Bill 1361 and pass it on to somebody who can prob­ previously and recognises that so much good­ ably exploit it-and I use that word in its will attaches to him, and it is not unusual for kinder sense-to the full. That is what has it to engage the man, after he has transferred happened here. Mr. Griffiths is anxious that his property to the company, in an advisory the property which he has owned and capacity and, depending upon his activities, developed over a number of years should be to remunerate him. developed further, and he has selected as Remuneration may be of several types. It his donee-and surely any person is entitled, may be a salary or a weekly wage; it may if he wishes to make a gift, to se'lect the include such benefits as the use of a motor donee himself-the National Trust of vehicle or the use of a home. What is Queensland. He has decided that the trust happening in the case of the Currumbin Bird is the appropriate body to carry out his Sanctuary is that Mr. Griffiths is being given wishes. an entitlement to the occupation for the rest I remind the Committee that the National of his life of a two-bedroom fibro cottage, Trust of Queensland was set up in 1963 or which I think those of us who have been 1964 when another benefactor was looking to the bird sanctuary have seen. I think for someone to whom he could give property. we would a~! recognise that it is not a house I think it was at Moggill, and if I remember of any great pretentious but quite a modest correctly, his name was Moon. He wished cottage. In addition, he is entitled to retain to have his property used in perpetuity for the use of a Valiant Centura car. the benefit of people generally. Mr. K. J. Hooper: What year? Mr. K. J. Hooper: That was in Rafting Ground Road. Mr. LOWES: The fact that the registration number is OOS-700 and that it is a Valiant Mr. LOWES: The honourable member for Centura would suggest to me that it is a Archerfield tells me that it was in Rafting fairly recent model. Again, it is not a high­ Ground Road. I was aware of that. priced Continental car; it ,is quite a modest car. I am assuming-and I think it is a The trust was set up at that time, and it reasonable assumption-that that vehicle has carried on from there. At present it belongs to one of the companies. is managing about 18 properties and is involved in about 50 projects. It also acts The transfer of shares has in fact taken in a consultative capacity to the Government, place because the date of possession was 1 so there cannot be any doubt about its July this year, so it is a fait accompli. The integrity or its ability to perform the func­ shares have been transferred and the assets tions that Mr. Griffiths has been carrying are now held by the trust, on trust for the on at Currumbin. It is understandable, there­ trust-as I think may be the case with some fore, that when Mr. Griffiths was looking of the shares. The deed says that from the for someone to do this job, he selected the date of the settlement, which is 1 July, and National Trust. for the remainder of his lifetime Mr. Griffiths shall be employed at the sanctuary by the The deed says that, so as to give effect trust with the title of Presiding Director and to Mr. Griffiths' intentions, he shall transfer Chairman of the Sanctuary Board of Advice. by way of gift the properties set out in the It further provides for his right to occupy deed, which are also set out in the schedule that home. to the Bill. That is in fact what he has done. The properties were not all owned in the The next clause is an interesting one in name of Mr. Griffiths. He, as many business­ that it provides for superannuation. This, men do, carried on business through com­ at first, could seem to be a further benefit panies. There was shareholding in the to Mr. Griffiths. No doubt it is, but I think the whole tenor of Mr. Griffiths' intention is companies, so the companies were to be shown when one reads the end of that clause. transferred to the trust. It provides that on the death of Mr. Griffiths However, as I said, the position here is the trust undertakes, to the extent that it is similar to that of the man who gets out of empowered and able to do so, to outlay and a successfu1 business and passes it on to expend any moneys payable as a consequence some large company that can exploit the of the said superannuation on some specific assets of the company properly. What project or purpose directly benefiting the happens in such cases is that the company sanctuary. If ever there was a man with which takes over recognises the expertise of an intent to benefit people and with good the man who has carried on the business will in his heart, it was Mr. Griffiths. That 1362 Currumbin Bird [28 OCTOBER 1976] Sanctuary Bill is why I support the Bill and say that we (b) the protection and augmentation should do everything possible to facilitate its of the amenities of such lands, build­ passage through the House. ings and chattels and their surroundings; (c) the access to the enjoyment of The desirability of maintaining the Cur­ such lands, buildings and chattels by the rumbin Bird Sanctuary, apart from all the public." interesting factors such as the sighting of Section 3 of the Act makes it quite clear birds and mammals, is also indicated by the that the trust has adequate authority to employment opportunities it offers. Some­ manage the Currumbin Bird Sanctuary. thing like 95 men are employed here. That alone is a valid reason why we should do It deals with the constitution of the everything we possibly can to facilitate the National Trust and provides- transfer of the property to the trust as quickly "(1) There shall be constituted a body as possible. Speed has been of the essence of to be called 'The National Trust of this matter since early in the year. Queensland.' "(2) The National Trust shall be a body I think it was as long ago as 9 January corporate with perpetual succession and a this year when the trust wrote to the Min­ common seal and may sue and be sued ister in his capacity as the member for the in all courts and shall, for the purposes electorate rather than as the Minister. It and subject to the provision of this Act, wrote and said what was proposed. That be capable of purchasing, holding, granting, was before any publicity was given to the demising, disposing of or otherwise deal­ proposal. It pointed out in that early letter ing with real and personal property, and the desirability of implementing the plan as of doing and suffering all such other quickly as possible. It pointed out in all acts and things that a body corporate may fairness that an element of doubt had been by law do or suffer." raised as to the eapaci ty of the trust, as Surely it can be said that the provisions of incorporated under the Act, to administer the Act are wide enough to enable the such an undertaking. In the same letter the National Trust to administer the Currumbin Minister was requested to look bto that Bird Sanctuary. However, if there is still aspect and, if necessary, to do whatever was any doubt as to its capacity to conduct required •to facilitate the intention of Mr. the business, such a doubt can be erased Griffiths. by reference to section 16, which refers to From that time on there was an exchange by-laws and provides for the "making of of correspondence. By the middle of the charges or entrance fees on persons or year the doubt was fortified on different sides, associations or groups of persons using or and the trust took counsel's advice. I have entering upon such lands and buildings, or had the privilege of reading Mr. Peter Con­ any specified part or parts thereof, and the nolly's opinion on this matter. I doubt if collection and receiving of such charges and I have ever read an opinion less equivocal fees by the council of the National Trust than his. He has no doubt whatsoever that or other persons." Surely by referring to the trust as incorporated under the National the making of charges, the Act intends that Trust of Queensland Act had the capacity to the National Trust shall have the power to carry on the business of the sanctuary. May carry on a business such as the Currumbin I say with the greatest respect that it is Bird Sanctuary. an opinion with which I concur. Mr. Marginson: If there had been any doubt the Government need not have brought I think that most people would agree that in this legislation. the National Trust of Queensland Act is adequate. Section 5 of the Act sets out Mr. LOWES: I should have thought that the objects of the National Trust, as if there had been any doubt, all that the follows:- Government would need to do was make a minor amendment to the National Trust of "The National Trust is constituted for the purposes of promoting- Queensland Act. Mr. Marginson: That's what I am saying. (a) the preservation and maintenance for the benefit of the public generally Mr. LOWES: But by the middle of this of lands, buildings, furniture, pictures year matters became bogged down. Obviously and other chattels of beauty or of there was a fair amount of negotiation national, historic, scientific, artistic, or between the Minister and the trust. Several architectural interest; letters were exchanged. Currumbin Bird [28 OcTOBER 1976] Sanctuary Bill 1363

On 20 August the trust wrote to the Trust that this should occur in co­ Minister stating that it was anxious to pro­ operation and harmonious relationship ceed quickly with certain plans for con­ with the State Government." tinuing the better development of the sanc­ The letter goes on- tuary. There again the urgency of the "To indicate our thinking on the matter matter is being stressed. In the same letter the Trust would like to see by-laws intro­ reference "·' made to the desirability of duced to cover the following main areas". facilitating the wishes of Mr. Griffiths. The letter reads- The by-laws proposed are set out. There are some five by-laws, which suggest by way "The purpose of this letter is to advise of recommendation to the Minister the you of this proposed action and to make establishment of a board of advice (and, it quite dear that in the opinion of the after all, under this Bill we are setting up Trust and the Directors of the Sanctuary a board); how that board may be con­ Group of Companies, the early imple­ stituted; the setting-up of books of account mentation of this plan is vital to the to be audited by the Auditor-General; that Sanctuary.'" reports be made by the board to the Minister; That was in August, some six weeks after and that whatever other necessary aspects the date of possession, 1 July. It can be seen be written into the Act and the by-laws for that the matter of urgency was being stressed the employment of Mr. Griffiths and for the then. It was at that time, too, that news­ maintenance of the sanctuary. papers were playing havoc with the whole of Again on 27 August the matter of urgency the matter. It was becoming a confused was being stressed. I point out particularly issue-most unfortunately, because the intent the desire on the part of the trust that of Mr. Griffiths was becoming somewhat matters be brought to a conclusion har­ blurred as a result of the unfortunate state­ moniously. Unfortunately, that was not to ments that were being made. be. Somewhere along the line, not long On 20 August-the same day that that after that, litigation was commenced. letter was written to the Minister-Mr. Admittedly litigation was commenced by the Griffiths himself wrote to the Honourable trust. It was commenced by an originating the Minister in these terms- summons and sought a declaration by the court that the agreement of 24 June was "While [ appreciate your interest and valid, that the purposes of the agreement concern, I assure you that I am perfectly were valid and that the trust could manage satisfied and happy with the arrangements the Currumbin Bird Sanctuary. It was the that have been made regarding my gift sort of application to which our attitude to the National Trust." should have been one of consent. Had we The word "gift" I stress, because in the gone to the court and consented to an order, Minister's remarks at the introductory stage I believe all doubts would have been re­ I see what is possibly a typographical error moved. Unfortunately, that was not to be. in that the word "gift" is in inverted commas. The next step in the whole affair was that I feel sure the Minister intended that it the Government, through the Attorney­ should be in block capitals, as the gift is of General, commenced an action in the such magnitude that it ought to have been Supreme Court-an action which frustrated stressed rather than put in a form that would the originating summons that had been issued suggest that it is not a gift at all. previously. That action was again met by I have read a number of letters in various an action commenced by the trust against the actions-letters which were written with a Hon. the Minister in person and also against view to litigation-but I doubt if I have the Attorney-General. ever read a letter such as the one of 27 These matters came before the Court, and August 1976, which was couched in such there was an order made for a hearing of sweet terms of reason. This is a letter the whole action at an early date. There from Mr. Hancock, the president of the was a time-table laid down, when pleadings National Trust, to the Minister, in which he were to be delivered. I understand that those asked that the Minister should- pleadings have in fact been delivered and " ... secure the advancement of the the date of trial is near at hand. Sanctuary in accordance with Mr. Griffiths' Now we have reached the situation where wishes and for the benefit of the public we have an originating summons adjourned generally. It is certainly the desire of the in the Supreme Court, and we have two 1364 Currumbin Bird [28 October 1976] Sanctuary Bill

Supreme Court actions both of which have me to be quite unworthy of the people rais­ been fully pleaded and which now involve ing them. It is almost a slur. I believe a great deal of money, because a great deal that there is no question of this being any­ of time and effort has been put into this. thing other than a most magnanimous gift. How unfortunate it is. The assets of the sanctuary of some 100 acres together with improvements on some of Mr. Marginson: It was about $10,000. the land are considered to be worth between $2,000,000 and $3,000,000. I would not Mr. LOWES: If it is $10,000 to the trust know how anyone could value them because as the honourable member for Wolston has it is a unique piece of land in the middle of suggested, one might well imagine that it a high-density suburban area. I would not be cost the Government about the same. So quite sure just how a figure for land valua­ we are looking at a figure which would be tion would be established. Even if it is nearly $20,000. These are costs which have as low as $2,000,000 and with the total been incurred and, I think, probably incur­ debts owing by the company at something red unnecessarily. less than $500,000, here we have a gift There is a solution to this and I am sure of approximately $1,500,000 being made virt­ that the Minister will give consideration to ually to the people of Queensland. For the solution now that he is putting the Bill some time it looked as though we were through the House. I would suggest that looking a gift horse in the mouth, and that the Trust Act itself was adequate and that was a pity. It certainly took some of the the need for further legislation was doubtful. gilt and glitter from the gift. As we all There is a Bill now before the House and, know, many people find as much pleasure in on reading it, I wonder if it achieves what making a gift as in receiving one. For it sets out to do. It was to carry out the Mr. Griffiths' sake, it is a pity that we did not intention of the Minister. As I considered handle this gift in a different manner. it was important I made a note of the Min­ I should now like to refer to the various ister's remarks in his introductory speech. sums of money that are owing. They are He said- referred to in the agreement, which is the " ... the Government's sole motiva­ deed of 24 June. There is an amount of tion in presenting this legislation is to give $30,000 referred to as owing to people in legal effect to Mr. Griffiths' declared wish New Zeailand. This represents a debt due to present his bird sanctuary venture to the by the companies to people in New Zealand trust, so it could continue to be operated, who, I understand, are relatives of Mr. as it is now, as a wildlife attraction for the Griffiths. There was, I understand, a piece benefit of future generations." of land available that Mr. Griffiths believed That, no doubt, is the intention of the Bill was suitable for inclusion in the sanctuary. before the House. Because of a lack of liquidity at that time he borrowed $30,000 from relatives in New Looking at the Bill, one wonders if it quite Zealand for the purpose of acquiring the achieves what it sets out to do. Why did land. He bought it, and that land is now it give the Currumbin trust the right to part of the land listed in the schedule to the acquire and hold shares, when it did nothing Bi,JI. There is still a debt of $30,000. about the disposal of shares? As I under­ stand the proposal by Mr. Griffiths, his The only strange thing that I can see about shares in some 11 companies would be trans­ that debt is that, so far as I know, it is ferred to the trust and the trust would wind unsecured, and H is interest-free. Surely up the companies and the assets of the com­ that is not a matter that should cause panies would be distributed, as is said, in concern to anybody or make any member specie; in other words, the assets of the com­ of the public think that the National Trust panies would be handed over to the trust. of Queensland is acquiring liabilities. Of I wonder whether the Bill in its original course it is acquiring some liabilities, but form went as far as that. There was a further when one compares the liabilities with the provision later in the Bill for the disposal of assets and sees the net figure one sees what certain assets. I have some doubts on the a large gift is being made. adequacy of the Bill. A great deal is being made of the sum The reference to this transaction as being of $220,000 owing to Mr. Griffiths. There is a gift and the questions which have been nothing unusual about that debt. That sum raised whether it is a gift or not seem to represents undistributed profits. I believe Currumbin Bird [28 October 1976] Sanctuary Bill 1365 those profits have been accumulating for pay from the sanctuary. Perhaps the sanc­ some time. Over many years money earned tuary could well afford to do this, because, by the sanctuary has been put back into whereas for the year ended 30 June 1976 its development. There has not been the turnover of the sanctuary was approx­ $220,000, or any part of it, ava~lable for imately $800,000, the estimated turnover for Mr. Griffiths to take out to pay to himself the current year is $1,250,000. Although, as as profits over a period of years. The debt I have said before, there are some 95 was payable on demand and, with the transfer people employed there-and, as it operates of the companies to the trust, Mr. Griffiths seven days a week, with a turnover like was entitled to say to the trust, "I want my that in the current year it is quite reasonable $220,000 today." It was payable on demand to suppose that a director of that undertaking and he was quite entitled to do that. But he would be entitled to quite a sizeable director­ did not. By the deed, he has made an ate fee or salary. But that is not the case. agreement with the trust to take the $220,000 Again, Mr. Griffiths is being most generous at the rate of $10,000 a half year, and then towards the trust so that he can see the only provided he gives the trust three months' implementation of what has been for him a notice that he requires it. That ensures that lifetime desire. the trust will not be in the invidious position The value of the land and the house which of having to find $10,000 at short notice. Mr. Griffiths occupies-a two-bedroom fibro What could be fairer than that? There is cottage-is estimated at something like no profit in that for Mr. Griffiths. Any $18,000. If we capitalise that for the sake of distributed profit he has already had, and no rental, we would come to a figure of $36 a doubt he has paid tax on it. The $220,000 week, which again is not a large sum to be represents undistributed profits due to him. receiving by way of a fringe benefit, if you There is nothing strange about that. like to put it that way, which is the use of a house. But from that $36 a week would have There is an amount of approximately to be taken what would be reasonable rental $123,000 owing to the National Bank. I for an office, because in that house there is understand that that amount was borrowed an office, and that is the office which the last year for, in the first place, erecting and board uses for its meetings. So again we see revamping the kiosk and, in the second place, that, whereas Mr. Griffiths might be getting the construction of a railway line which something on the one hand, he is virtually passes beneath the highway. Of that $123,000, handing it back with the other. $27,000 was paid by Mr. Griffiths to the Main Roads Department for the construction I expect that the Bill will pass through the of a viaduct over his railway on which House-and we should do all that is possible people call be taken to other parts of the to expedite its passage-but we are still left sanctuary. with the nagging matters of the litigation in the Supreme Court, and, by way of a Reference has been made to varying sums. recommendation to the Minister, I would say I think the Minister referred tonight to a that after this Bill is passed and becomes sum of $2,000 as salary for Mr. Griffiths. Another figure which has been frequently law the Government should, if necessary, mentioned as his salary is $10,000. In fact, consent to the orders which are sought by the there is no agreement whatsoever between trust for a declaration, together with costs. I Mr. Griffiths and the trust for the payment expect that the trust would wish to withdraw of any salary. the originating summons. I believe that the Government should consent to the with­ The deed does provide for Mr. Griffiths to drawal of that originating summons, again be employed by the trust for the rest of his with costs. life. It also provides that Mr. Griffiths shall become a director, and it is reasonable to As to the action that was commenced assume that as a director he will be paid through the Attorney-General-most regret­ directorate fees, and to him that would be a tably, I submit-! suggest that the Attorney­ salary. General withdraw that action and that the costs of the trust incurred in defending that I understand that over the years Mr. action be paid by him. Griffiths has been drawing what would seem to be a very meagre amount indeed, and I support the Bill in so far as it attempts no suggestion is made anywhere that he to implement the intent of Mr. Griffiths; intends to change his way of life and become but I express my doubts as to its need or avaricious in his demands for a high rate of its adequacy for that purpose. 1366 Currumbin Bird (28 OCTOBER 1976] Sanctuary Bill

Hon. R. J. HINZE (South Coast-Minister information, and in the debate this evening for Local Government and Main Roads) he has given honourable members an indi­ (9.6 p.m.). in reply: I thank the honourable cation of his legal prowess. member for Wolston, who led for the Opposi­ I only wish to say that, as a very tion, for his contribution to the debate. In humble Minister of the Crown in the State the absence of other honourable members of Queensland, I have to take cognisance from both sides of the Chamber, he of the information made available to me. As had the job of perusing the Bill and a member of Cabinet-and, I might add, considering it in the time available. It a junior member-I would be expected to relates to matters that have been controver­ take cognisance of the advice of people such sial for some time, and he had to try to as Sir Arnold Bennett. He told me, and decide the right steps to take and the right the Government, very clearly what steps attitudes to adopt on behalf of the Opposition should be taken, day by day, week by week, in the House. I commend the honourable and we took them. If I, as a Minister of member for the job he has done and for the Crown, had done otherwise, I would his contribution to the second-reading debate. have been regarded as a fool. As he has stated clearly, there were some Tonight the stage has been reached at doubts in his mind about figures that have which the long legal battle, for which, been mentioned in this Parliament, in the obviously, the Government or the people of Press and in the other news media. I can Queensland will have to pay, will be ter­ only say to him that the figures used by minated. I believe that to this stage costs the Government have been those provided amounted to about $10,000. Nothing has by the National Trust itself. They are not been proved, and the action could have a figment of the Government's imagination. gone on for 12 months and there could We have asked the trust for certain infor­ have been appeals. mation; it has been made available to us. An appeal was made for public subscrip­ There were some doubts in the mind of tions. I believe that something like $2,500 the Government, and all it set out to do ·to $3,000 was subscribed. I understand it was remove those doubts and give the trust cost something like $2,000 for the advertise­ the authority that it needed to allow it to ments. There could be $300 or $400 in proceed. To put the matter beyond all the pool to pay for the legal expenses. I doubt, the Government decided to make the indicated previously that I have received authority retrospective. That is what I communication-some people call it said orig1na,lly; I repeat it tonight. "dialogue" or some other damn thing these days-- After the Bill has been passed, it will Dr. Crawford: Meaningful discussion. become part of the law of the State of Queensland. In the years ahead, the efforts Mr. HINZE: Meaningful discussion, in of the trust at the Currumbin Bird Sanc­ which I was asked to recommend to Cabinet tuary will come under scrutiny and pro­ that we accept the responsibil1ity. I have said bably will again be debated in this Chamber. quite clearly that so far as this Government Only time will tell. All honourable members is concerned we should put aside the funds can do at this stage is wish the trust provided by some people in Queensland, and well. I will recommend to Cabinet that we defray the expenses. We are a benevolent Govern­ The honourable member for Brisbane has ment and we try to be fair at all times. had quite a lot of information made avail­ I say that, irrespective of ·the fact that we able to him. Of course, he is one of still believe, and I am strongly of the view, Queensland's foremost legal men, an extre­ that the opinion given to us by Sir Arnold mely capable lawyer. Bennett was the right one. Of course, if Peter An Honourable Member: He hasn't taken Connolly had been the man the Government silk yet. had briefed at the time, I would have accepted his opinion. That is the way legal Mr. HINZE: After listening to his dis­ men work, and apparently that is the way sertation this evening, I wouldn't be sur­ the nation works. prised if he did before long. It is quite I do not want to take up any more time obvious that the honourable member for other than to say "Thank you" to the hon­ Brisbane, because of his outstanding ability, ourable member for Wolston, and the honour­ must expect people to furnish him with able member for Brisbane who, in his very Currumbin Bird [28 October 1976] Sanctuary Bill 1367

fluent speech, capably told this Parliament deficit at the end of a financial year that the complete story of that side of the deficit would have to be carried forward. argument so far. All I do on this occasion That is what should be done, but it should is again say to the National Trust-- have been set out in the Bill. In effect the general revenue obtained in the following Mr. Moore: You're taking a long time year should have to meet such a deficit. to say goodbye. As I said before, if the trust were to Mr. IDNZE: When I look around the appear in court the court will not be able Chamber and see the honourable member to read the explanation given to us tonight for Windsor it leads me to the sort of by the Minister. It could in fact say that feeling that I don't want to say goodbye to the money will have to be provided at the anyone, particularly him. If I did I woUJld end of the financial year to meet the deficit have to say "Grandfather", or something incurred during that financial year. like that. He knows what would happen to him if he went down to Currumbin, doesn't Hon. R. J. HINZE (South Coast-Minister he? He knows where .the birds sit. for Local Government and Main Roads) (9.16 p.m.): I thank the honourable mem­ Mr. SPEAKER: Order! ber for Wolston for his contribution and for allowing me to clear up this matter. Mr. HINZE: To my learned colleague It is the wish of the National Trust and from Windsor I say "Thanks for the inter­ the Government that the Currumbin Bird jection." I think we need a little bit of Sanctuary pay its way. We have made pro­ levity when things get serious. vision for reserves and for the development Motion (Mr. Hinze) agreed to. of the sanctuary according to the desires and wishes of the board of management.

CoMMITTEE The honourable member is concerned that (Mr. Miller, Ithaca, in the chair) in a particular year a deficit may be incurred, and he asks: what then? It is ordinary, Clauses 1 to 11, both inclusive, as read, normal accounting practice to carry deficits agreed to. forward. That is the intention of the Bill. Clause 12-Treatment of snrplus and It is not intended that this has to be spelt deficit- out specifically. It simply says that deficits incurred are carried forward into the next Mr. MARGINSON (Wolston) (9.14 p.m.): year, when the board of management may This clause deals with the treatment of a decide to increase the entrance fees or some surplus that may occur or a deficit that of its charges, say, on the train or in the may occur in the trust's finances. The first rock shop, or wherever else it derives funds part of the clause provides that a surplus from. This is the way the people of Queens­ must be put back into maintenance, improve­ land would want it, and this is the way the ment or enlargement of the property. The trust wants it. second part, dealing with a deficit, provides- There are numerous other undertakings "A deficit in the general fund and any part thereof shall not be met by moneyS' like this in Queensland. They do not have appropriated for the purpose from moneys the protection of this Government, and they received by the National Trust in or for are now saying to us, "You gave the Cur­ the purpose of the exercise of its powers rumbin Bird Sanctuary a pretty good deal." and authorities under the Act." Let us see what happens. The trust wants to take over this sanctuary. It believes it has That could mean that if there were a deficit the skill and ability to do it. It also believes the trust would have to find that money from that huge profits are to be made from its some other source. operations and that those profits will not If the trust is ever in a court of law the be taxable. In time all these matters will court will not have before it the speech settle themselves. made by the Minister, which clears up the Again I say to the honourable member position. The Minister told us tonight that that ordinary accounting practice is that a deficit arising from the operations of the deficits are carried forward into the follow­ sanctuary will not be met or financed from ing year. The board of management will moneys received by the National Trust from then decide what to do with them. its general activities under its Act. That means that if the sanctuary's operations result in a Clause 12, as read, agreed to. 1368 National Trust, &c., Bill [28 OCTOBER 1976] Special Adjournment

Clause 13-National Trust's discretion Under the Bill, the auditor carrying out the preserved- audit has to certify whether the books and accounts have been properly kept and Hen. R. J. HINZE (South Coast-Minister exhibit a true and fair view of the state of for Local Government and Main Roads) such accounts as at the close of the period (9.18 p.m.): I move the following amend- in question. ment:- As I mentioned in my previous speech, the "On page 4, line 7, after the words trust is in agreement with the Government 'Currumbin Bird Sanctuary' insert the words- auditing its books and accounts. ',to alter the means whereby the sanc­ Mr. MARGI\NSON (Wolston) (9.24 tuary is conducted (including the p.m.): We have nothing to add at this stage liquidation of all or any of the pres­ of the Bill. It is only a machinery measure cribed companies) or '." and results from the passing a few moments The intention of ilie amendment is to ago of the Currumbin Bird Sanctuary Bill, clarify that the National Trust will have which provided among other things for a power, if it so desires, to liquidate all or certain method of auditing. It is necessary any of the prescribed companies established that this legislation be passed to provide by the founder of the sanctuary for the for those auditing procedures. purpose of its operation. If it so desires, the trust will have power to liquidate such com­ Hon R. J. HINZE (South Coast­ panies and have the sanctuary lands vested Minister for Local Government and Main in it so that it can conduct ilie sanctuary Roads) (9.25 p.m.), in reply: I thank .the in its own name. honourable member for Wolston again for his contribution and for the way in which Amendment (Mr. Hinze) agreed to. he has handled the Bill on behalf of the Clause 13, as amended, agreed to. Opposition. Schedules 1 and 2, as read, agreed to. Motion (Mr. Hinze) agreed to. Bill reported, with an amendment. CoMMITTEE

THIRD READING (Mr. Miller, Ithaca, in the chair) Bill, on motion of Mr. Hinze, by leave, Clauses 1 and 2, as read, agreed to. read a third time. Bill reported, without amendment.

THIRD READING NATIONAL TRUST OF QUEENSLAND BiH, on motion of Mr. Hinze, by ·leave, ACT AMENDMENT BILL read a third time. SECOND READING Hon. R. J. HINZE (South Coast­ Minister for Local Government and Main GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE Roads) (9.23 p.m.): I move- CoMMENDATION "That the Bill be now read a second time." Hon. R. J. HINZE (South Coast-Minis­ ter for Local Government and Main Roads) As I explained at the introductory stage, this (9.27 p.m.): The Minister for Water Bill is a short measure providing that the Resources has requested me to express his books and accounts of the National Trust of appreciation of the efforts of the Acting Gov­ Queensland be subject to audit by the ernment Printer (Mr. Sid Hampson) and his Auditor-General. The National Trust receives staff, who went out of their way to prepare a grant from the Government each year, and everything to facilitate the presentation of it is normal practice for a body or organisa­ the Water Resources Estimates today. I do tion which receives governmental assistance so in order that it will be recorded in "Han­ of this type to be subject to Government audit. sard". In terms of the Bill, the Auditor-General may appoint one of his own officers to carry out the audit, or appoint a registered public SPECIAL ADJOURNMENT accountant for that purpose. The fee (if any) Hon. R. E. CAMM (Whitsunday-Min­ for the audit will be determined by the ister for Mines and Energy): I move-- Auditor-General. I understand that, if the National Trust can arrange for a registered "That the House, at its rising, do public accountant who meets the satisfaction adjourn until Tuesday, 9 November 1976." of the Auditor-General to undertake the audit in an honorary capacity, the Auditor­ Motion agreed to. General will impose no fee. The House adjourned at 9.28 p.m.