1966

VICTORIA

FORESTS COMMISSION -VICTORIA

AUSTRALIA

FORTY-SEVENTH ANNUAL REPORT

FINANCIAL YEAR 19 6 5-6 6

PRESENTED TO BOTH HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT PURSUANT TO ACT No. 6254, SECTION 35.

[.Appro;rimate Oost of Report-Preparation. not given. Printing (225 copies), $630.00.]

By Authority

A. C. BROOKS, GOVERNMENT PRINTER, MELBOURNE.

No. 8-6932/66.-Price 45 cents

FORESTS COMMISSION-VICTORIA

453 Latrobe Street,

Melbourne, C.l.

ANNUAL REPORT 1965-66 In compliance with the provisions of section 35 of the Forests Act 1958 (No. 6254) the

Forests Commission has the honour to present to Parliament the following report of its

activities and financial statements for the financial year 1965-66.

H. G. MURPHY, Secretary,

28th October, 1966.

A. 0. LAWRENCE, Chairman.

F. R. MOULDS, Commissioner.

CONTENTS

FEATURES

MANAGEMENT-

Forest Area, Surveys, Mapping and Aerial Photography, Assessment, Management Plans,

PAGE

5

Plantation Extension Surveys, Reserves, Water Catchment Management 8

OPERATIONS-

Silviculture, Establishment of New Plantations, Utilization, Forest Engineering, Reclamation and Conservation Works, Forestry Prison Camps, Law Enforcement, Transport, Buildings, Forest Foremen's Training School, Extension Services 11

ECONOMICS AND MARKETING-

Utilization, Forest Products, Industrial Undertakings, Other Activities 23

PROTECTION-

Fire-Seasonal Conditions, Origin of Fires, &c. ; Telecommunications ; Fire Research 25

Biological-Animals, Insects, Weeds, Fungi 27

EDUCATION AND RESEARCH-

Education-School of Forestry, University of Melbourne, Overseas and Other Studies ; Research-Silviculture, Hydrology, Pathology, Entomology ; Public Relations, Technical Publications 28

CONFERENCES 32

ADMINISTRATION-

Personnel-Staff, Industrial, Staff Training ; Stores ; Financial

APPENDICES-

I.

II.

Ill.

IV.

V. VI.

Statement of Output of Produce

Causes of Fires

Summary of Fires and Areas Burned

Type of Area Burned in State Forests and National Parks

Classification of Fire Acreages in State Forests and National Parks

Monthly Outbreaks of Fire

VII. Protection Works-Summary

VIII. Contracts

IX.

X.

Financial Statements­

Loan Expenditure

Statement of Revenue and Appropriated Expenditure

XI. Forestry Fund ..

XII. Forests Stores Suspense Account and Forests Plant and Machinery Fund

XIII. State Sawmill, Erica

XIV. Proposed Disbursements and Estimated Receipts, 1966-67

33

36

37

37

38

38 38

39

40

40

41

41

42

43

45

FEATURES.

Area of reserved forest

Output of logs from State forest

Volume of softwood logs from State Plantations ..

Revenue-

Royalties received from sale of forest produce

Total amount paid to Consolidated Revenue

Expenditure authorized by­

Forests Act 1958, No. 6254-

Section 30-Forestry Fund

Section 32-Plant and Machinery Fund

Appropriation Acts

State Forests Loan Application Acts

5,603,832 acres

441,825,000 super. feet (approx.) Hoppus log volume

46,241,000 super. feet (approx.) Hoppus log volume

..

$4,518,076

$5,773,025

$2,173,192

$175,040

$3,198,644

• • $2,076,933

ANNUAL FOR

REPORT OF THE THE YEAR ENDED

FORESTS COMMISSION 30TH JUNE, 1966.

AUSTRALIAN FORESTRY CoUNCIL.

The constitution by the Commonwealth Government in August, 1964, of the Australian Forestry Council is one of the most significant factors in the development of Australian forestry. Although the chiefs of forest departments in Commonwealth and State spheres had, for many years, met regularly to discuss problems of mutual interest, they could not commit their Governments in any way ; nor could the attitude of a Minister be tempered by the thoughts of his contemporaries in other States, when he lacked the opportunity to meet and hear those men in debate on a specific subject of forest interest. The Australian Forestry Council, while it cannot bind any Government to its decisions, is a forum where Ministers of like interests can debate forestry matters with a new perspective.

The first determination of the Council, following investigation by and discussion with its Standing Committee, was a resolution of the necessity for Australia to provide a softwood resource of at least 3,000,000 acres by the year 2000. Recommendations made by the Council to the Commonwealth Government as to the manner in which this might be achieved were substantially adopted. As a result, this State will be expected to accelerate its rate of softwood planting from 6,000 acres, achieved in 1965, to 15,000 acres by 1971 and to continue at that rate of planting until the end of the century. The Commonwealth Government has agreed to advance a special loan for the purpose, free of interest for ten years, with redemption payments commencing in the eleventh year and continuing by equal annual instalments until final repayment in the thirty-fifth year after each loan is made.

The Commission, with the understanding and co-operation of the Lands Department and the support of the Government, will be able to obtain the required area of suitable country to effect the programme.

While of the utmost significance, this decision is only one of several matters of importance to the national development of Australia likely to engage the Council's attention in the immediate future.

THE TIMBER INDUSTRY.

The easing of demand for sawn timber, which occurred towards the end of 1964-65, continued during the past year, reflecting the current decline in the level of home building in Victoria. Sawmillers, particularly those located in the more remote areas, also experienced difficulty in maintaining an adequate labour force. The combined effect of these factors reduced the output of sawn timber below the average for the past five years.

Rights to obtain 20,000,000 super feet H.L.V. of sawlogs annually from the Errinundra area in East Gippsland were granted during the year, but a good deal of roading and mill construction work will be necessary before cutting of this timber commences. All of the successful applicants for licences at Errinundra are already operating elsewhere in the State. As they will be either terminating or reducing those operations, the new allocations will not result in any large increase in total production.

Some sawmillers have endeavoured to attract and hold suitable labour by installing labour-saving machinery for handling timber. There is also a noticeable trend towards the use of equipment operating at higher speeds and designed to increase recovery as well as man-hour production.

The timber industry generally has displayed greater activity to maintain its share of the markets by continuing its efforts in the fields of sales promotion, personnel training and public relations.

THE COMMISSION.

Mr. H. D. Galbraith, Commissioner of Forests, retired on 2nd February, 1966, after 49 years of service with the Department, including nine years as a Commissioner.

8

Mr. Galbraith, a Gippslander by birth, entered the School of Forestry in 1917 and served as officer in charge of several forest districts. He was Inspector in charge of East Gippsland and was Chief Inspector from 1947 until 1957. His wide experience and personal knowledge of field conditions assisted materially in the Commission's deliberations.

Mr. Galbraith was a foundation member of the Country Fire Authority and had been its Chairman for one year before his resignation in 1963. He was a member of the Tourist Development Authority up to the time of his retirement.

Dr. F. R. Moulds, Chief of the Division of Forest Management, has been appointed Commissioner in his stead.

During the absence of the Chairman in May and June, Mr. A. L. Benallack was appointed Deputy Chairman and Mr. E. D. Gill, Deputy Commissioner.

FIRE PROTECTION.

After a period of steady consolidation through the introduction of modern equipment and adoption of improved techniques, the Commission this year made a prominent advance into new fields of endeavour, which included the hire of a helicopter on charter for reconnaissance of going fires and for delivery of personnel into inaccessible areas, the charter and fitting of an aircraft for cloud seeding to increase precipitation over dangerously dry country, and the application of new procedures designed to reduce the risk of escape of fire in fuel reduction operations. In addition, a mobile support crew of eighteen young men, mainly University undergraduates, was engaged and trained to move anywhere in the State to back up initial attack undertaken by local personnel.

The Commission records with appreciation the efforts of its staff in fire fighting and the assistance rendered by officers of the Country Fire Authority and members of rural and urban fire brigades.

FIRE AT CRESWICK.

A fire on grasslands west of Creswick entered the pine plantation on 25th January and burnt 500 acres, of which 378 carried utilizable timber. It is interesting to record that this is the largest area of softwood of commercial size lost in any one fire since 1939.

CENTRAL STATION "VL3AA ".

The Commission commenced a programme of modernization of its radio communications by inst<J.lling a modern console at its central station " VL3AA " to replace the unit which had given notable performance since its installation in 1945. A complete V.H.F. interlinking system was established in the Otways. Aerials of advanced type were designed and developed by our radio engineers and the portable unit, also designed and tested by them, was committed for commercial production.

NEW PAVILION AT SHOWGROUNDS.

The Commission's pavilion erected in 1922 at the Royal Agricultural Society's Showgrounds, was not only out-dated in design and non-functional, but had developed structural defects during the passage of years. Costly repairs had been effected, but their continuance was unjustified. The new pavilion opened by the Minister on 20th September, 1965, is of modern design and displays Victorian timbers in a manner of interest and assistance to the architect and home builder. It has evoked favourable comment from visitors.

MANAGEMENT.

FOREST AREA.

The area of reserved forest at 30th June, 1966, was 5,603,832 acres, a net increase of 3 acres.

Changes in the area of reserved forest were :-

Excisions under Forests Act 1958 :­

Section 42, sub-section (8)

Additions under Forests Act 1958 :­

Section 42, sub-section (8)

acres,

82

85

In addition, 4,020 acres of alienated land were purchased, comprising 3,012 acres for extension of softwood plantations and 1,008 acres, including 106 acres on the western slopes of the Dandenong Ranges, for miscellaneous forest purposes. These additional areas had not been dedicated by 30th June, 1966.

9

SURVEYS.

Surveys were carried out in connexion with the demarcation of reserved forest boundaries, the determination of boundaries of land acquired by negotiation, purchase, exchange, and dedication, and for road access.

Priority has been given to the provision of horizontal and vertical control surveys which are essential for the production of topographic maps required for the planning of softwood plantation projects.

FOREST MAPPING AND AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY.

Further experimental work was carried out usiing three types of colour film for aerial mapping of forest vegetation. Results have been most encouraging and it is proposed to use colour photography more widely in the future.

An area of 352,000 acres of State forest in Briagolong, Orbost, Toolangi and You Yangs forest districts has been photographed through normal procedures.

Experimental aerial photography from the helic:opter under charter to the Commission for fire protection purposes has proved satisfactory for revision mapping of softwood plantations.

A planimetric map of the Kaye map sheet was prepared and contour mapping of softwood plantation areas has been undertaken in the Beechworth, Myrtleford, Daylesford, Gellibrand and Beaufort forest districts.

Revised maps of the Central Highlands, the Grampians and the Macalister River Watershed have been prepared for public distribution.

FoREST ASSESSMENT.

Detailed surveys of softwood plantations in Bright forest district were completed and estimates of volumes of growing stock were prepared, together with maps and other data required for planning. Similar work has commenced in the Loch Valley plantation in Neerim forest district.

Three surveys of mountain ash regrowth have been carried out in Erica, Toolangi and Marysville forest districts to determine the location and extent of stands suitable for early thinning and to estimate yields.

The continuous inventory of the better class forests of Trentham district has yielded valuable growth information. Two hundred continuous inventory plots have been established in similar forests of Daylesford district.

Alpine ash stands on the Tea Tree Range in Briagolong district were assessed for sawlog volumes and extensive timber reconnaissances were undertaken in the Betka River locality of Mallacoota district and the Reedy Creek area in Cann Valley district. Aerial inspections during the course of these surveys speeded the work considerably.

All the main computations in these projects were processed by electronic computer and the development of new programmes has been continued.

Forest District.

Briagolong

. Bright

Cann Valley

Daylesford

Erica

Mallacoota

Marysville

Toolangi

Trentham

Summary of Surveys Completed or in Progress.

Locality. Type of Survey.

Tea Tree Range Intensive sampling and mapping ..

Plantations Intensive sampling and mapping ..

Reedy Creek Timber reconnaissance ..

Various Continuous inventory .. Cascade and Eastern Tyers Detailed photo-interpretation and

sampling Betka River Timber reconnaissance ..

Mount Margaret Detailed photo-interpretation and sampling

Kalatha and Yea River .. Detailed photo-interpretation and sampling

Various Continuous inventory ..

Acres.

3,000

7,135

18,238

41,645

21,696

43,760

13,000

Incomplete

41,645

10

MANAGEMENT PLANS.

Yield estimates and cutting plans based on recent intensive sampling and mapping have been completed for plantations in Myrtleford district and are being prepared for plantations in Bright and Neerim forest districts. A cutting plan was prepared to cover salvage operations in plantations in Creswick district which were killed or damaged by fire during January.

Forward planning of softwood plantation extension projects has received special emphasis following the announcement of the intention of the Commonwealth Government to provide financial assistance to the States to increase their softwood planting programmes. In anticipation of the acceptance of the proposals by the State Government, plans are in hand to raise the Commission's planting programme from the current level of approximately 6,000 acres per annum to 15,000 acres per annum by 1971. Initially, this increased planting programme will include new projects in the eastern Strzelecki Ranges, the northern slopes of the Otway Ranges and the Acheron Valley.

Thinnings from mountain ash regrowth forests which developed in the Central Highlands following the 1939 fires will become an increasing source of pulpwood supplied under provisions of the Forests (Wood Pulp Agreement) Act 1961. Small logs are also becoming available from this source. A study has been made of the conditions necessary for economic thinning of this regrowth and this information is being incorporated in cutting plans aimed at developing a sustained supply of produce from these forests.

PLANTATION EXTENSION SURVEYS.

The following surveys to determine sites suitable for development as plantations were completed during the year.

Forest District. Locality. Acres (Gross).

Briagolong .. . . State forest in Parishes of Bow-Worrung, Narrang, 13,350 Marlooh, and Nindoo

Gellibrand and Forrest .. State forest and private property in Parishes of Yaugher, 36,100 Barramunga, Olangolah, Moorbanool, and Weea-proinah

Forrest . . . . . . State forest in the northern Otway Ranges .. .. 25,600

Marysville and Niagaroon .. State forest and private property in the Acheron Valley 67,700

Mirboo and Y arram .. State forest, purchased property, and private property 77,800 in the eastern Strzelecki Ranges

Neerim . . . . .. State forest and private property in the Loch Valley .. 5,000

Niagaroon .. . . State forest and private property adjacent to Whites 15,600 Creek

Yarram . . .. . . State forest in the Holey Plains, Mullungdung, Won 123,600 Wron, and Alberton West localities

REsERVES.

An area of l ,440 acres known as the Kimbolton Forest Recreation Reserve has been set aside for recreation purposes adjacent to Lake Eppalock.

Further areas in the popular Mt. Donna Buang locality have been reserved for scenic purposes and a lookout area overlooking plantations and alpine areas has been reserved in the Parish of Jinjellic in the Tallangatta forest district.

Forest parks, scenic reserves, alpine reserves, roadside reserves and special purpose reserves totalling over 41 ,000 acres in 73 locations have now been set aside under the provisions of Section 50 of the Forests Act.

WATER CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT.

Management prescriptions have been applied to reserved forest in the Billys Creek catchment which provides domestic water for the township of Yinnar, bringing the total number of such catchments to 59. These prescriptions aim to ensure that the quality and quantity of water is not adversely affected by forestry operations within the catchment.

11

OPERATIONS.

SILVICULTURE.

Native Forests.

Various silvicultural treatments were carried out over 34,913 acres. Details of individual treatments, by forest types, with comparative statistics for the previous year are as follows :-

Nature of Treatment.

Forest Type. Reg!neration Treatment.

Coppicing. Thinning. Liberation. Total. Direct Natural

Seedin11. Seeding.

Acres. Acres. Acres. Acres. Acres. Acres.

1965-66.

Ash eucalypts .. 2,575 241 423 50 3,289

Mixed Species eucalypts 107 1,774 755 4,320 9,125 16,081

Red Gum 201 170 60 1,623 6 2,060

Box-Ironbark 1,834 6,074 5,575 13,483

Totals 2,883 2,185 2,649 12,440 14,756 34,913

1964-65.

Ash eucalypts .. . . . . 1,980 400 .. 310 60 2,750

Mixed Species eucalypts .. 80 3,290 420 4,220 7,920 15,930

Red Gum . . . . . . . . . . .. 1,460 280 1,740

Box-Ironbark . . . . . . . . .. 2,620 6,030 6,240 14,890

Totals . . .. . . 2,060 3,690 3,040 12,020 14,500 35,310 .

Lack of finance limited the extent of treatments such as coppicing and early thinnings which do not yeld merchantable produce. Work of this nature was restricted to drier areas where early reduction of competition is essential to development of merchantable stands.

Commercial thinnings of mountain ash regrowth stands, which are yielding small logs and pulpwood were extended in Toolangi, Broadford, Upper Yarra and Neerim districts. Field trials to determine factors limiting economic thinning operations were carried out in mountain ash regrowth of 1939 origin. The information gained will be of considerable value in the organization of operations in the large areas of ash regrowth in Central and Southern divisions.

Licenced operators were used to carry out part of thinning and liberation treatment in Daylesford, Trentham and Macedon districts. These operations yielded mill logs for sawmills and pulpwood for hardboard manufacture. Departmental employees completed the treatment, removing the remaining useless stems.

Improved techniques for aerial seeding have been developed. This operation was extended over an increased area of alpine ash and mountain ash forests, following site preparation after the completion of logging.

Extensive areas of mixed eucalpyt species forests were cut over by licenced operators under intensive supervision for production of logs for sawmilling. Although some natural regeneration will appear in gaps, further work is required to completely regenerate such areas. The necessary silvicultural treatments, though carried out to the limit of available funds, are lagging behind the desirable level.

12

Plantations.

The areas of established plantations given silvicultural treatment during the past five years were:-

Acreage Treated. Nature of Treatment.

! 1965~6. 1964~5.

i 1963~4. 1962~3. 1961-62.

Cleaning . . .. . . 6,811 5,984 5,723 2,387 1,932 Pruning- i st stage . . .. 569 448 515} Pruning-2nd stage . . .. 149 116 177 820 910 Pruning-3rd stage . . .. 151 53 Thinning-early .. . . 161 134} 2,085 2,847 2,306 Thinning-commercial . . .. 2,413 2,493

The higher level of cleaning operations is due to the increased rate of planting since 1962. Control of silver wattle (Acacia dealbata) is a major aspect of this work.

Pruning operations increased and must continue to do so as the first plantings of the expanded plantation programme reach pruning size.

Commercial thinnings in established plantations have remained at approximately the same level as last year.

An area of 620 acres was sprayed with zinc sulphate in Lower Glenelg district where zinc deficiency limits successful establishment of P. radiata plantations.

Clear felling operations in softwood plantations were as follows :- acres

Mature stands 272 Conversion of unsatisfactory species 78 Road and extraction lines 44 Salvage of storm damaged areas* 109 Salvage of five damaged areas 170

Total 673

* Mainly at Bright, 92 acres.

Principal clear fellings of mature stands were undertaken at Creswick (51 acres), Myrtleford (47 acres), Bright (40 acres) and Gellibrand (30 acres.)

A serious fire occurred in the Creswick district during January, 1966. The fire burnt almost 500 acres of plantation of which 378 acres were carrying stands of merchantable size. Salvage of fire-killed trees began shortly after the fire and is still proceeding.

ESTABLISHMENT OF NEW PLANTATIONS. Clearing.

Of the total area of 7,002 acres cleared, 4,747 acres were carried out as departmental and 2,255 acres as contract operations.

The use of heavy anchor chain drawn by a pair of crawler tractors is now firmly established as a most efficient method of clearing under suitable conditions.

Roading.

Of 85 miles of road constructed in plantations, 44 miles were in new areas and the balance in areas already established.

Plant and Animal Pest Control.

Rabbits remain a serious problem in the establishment of softwood plantations. The Commission gratefully acknowledges the continued co-operation of officers of the Vermin and Noxious Weeds Destruction Board in control measures.

Aerial baiting covered an area of 20,160 acres. Ground control measures included the erection of nine miles of permanent and twelve miles of temporary netting fence.

13

Spraying of blackberries has continued. This vigorous plant constitutes a serious economic threat, particularly in areas recently planted and those subjected to thinning operations.

Summary of Areas Planted.

Net Area Planted (Acres). Nature of Planting.

1965. 1964. 1963. 1962.

Acres. Acres. Acres. Acres.

New planting-softwoods 5,665 4,836 3,666 New planting-hardwoods 1,150 1,049 860

New planting-total 5,885 4,526

Clear felled, storm-damaged, burnt, &c., replanted (all softwoods) 288 353 441

Special purpose (gravel pit reclamation, forest parks, &c.) (all hardwoods) 40 52 35

Total-all plantings 7,143 6,290 5,002

1960.•

Acres.

658 268

926

82

1,008

• Plantings in 1960 are shown to give a comparison of planting levels before commencement of the Plantation Expansion Programme.

Softwood plantings were of Pinus radiata (5,241 acres), Pinus pinaster (104 acres) and Pseudotsuga menziesii (74 acres). Experimental plantings of miscellaneous species comprised the remainder of the planted area.

Hardwood species planted were mainly Eucalyptus regnans (537 acres) and delegatensis (61 acres) in mountain areas. E. cladocalyx (112 acres) was the principal species planted in drier localities.

The total net area of softwood plantations as at 31st December, 1965 was 65,146 acres comprising 55,080 acres of P. radiata and 10,066 acres of other softwood species. The area of planted hardwoods rose by 779 acres to a total of 8,637 acres.

Location of areas of new planting-1965 season.

Soft woods.

Forest District.

Lower Glenelg Tallangatta Myrtleford Mansfield Bright Benalla Yarram Beechworth Gellibrand Mirboo Neerim Stawell Miscellaneous ..

Totals

. . ..

Acres.

1,415 901 744 365 310 280 248 240 201 158 96 89

385

5,432

Hardwonds.

Forest District.

Mirboo You Yangs Upper Yarra Toolangi Erica

. .

Dimboola Miscellaneous ..

. .

No new plantations were commenced during the year.

. .

Acres.

413 72 70 51 47 30 96

779

Renewal plantings were necessary in 1964 plantings in both hardwood and softwood plantations because of the excessively dry conditions experienced. Hence, serious inroads were made into supplies of available planting stock, and in order to meet 1965 planting targets, it was necessary to purchase 800,000 plants from South Australia.

Some problems in site preparation developed in areas being planted with mountain ash and this, together with a shortage of prison labour at Morwell River, caused a drop in the acreage planted.

14

Replanting of clear felled softwood areas was undertaken mainly at Bright (121 acres) and Myrtleford (125 acres).

Trial Plantings.

Forty-two plots were established to test the suitability of sites for softwood plantation establishment.

Seed Collection. ---------~---------~--······· ·--------

Seed Collected. 1965-66. 1964-65.

lb. lb.

Pinus radiata . . . . .. . . . . 717 564

Eucalypts . . . . . . .. . . 1,170 1,478

Other species . . . . . . .. . . 290 93

Total .. . . . . . . 2,177 2,135

Collection of seed from local stands of P. radiata again increased, but collections are still inadequate for the Commission's needs. Past policy of building up a seed reserve from imports provides an adequate supply for the current year.

Eucalypt seed collection was limited by the generally poor seed crops present on major species. The bulk of the seed collected was for use in direct seeding operations.

Nurseries.

A satisfactory season for propagation was experienced and increased numbers of plants were raised, notably 2,000,000 additional seedlings of P. radiata.

Plants raised for use within the department were :-

Pinus radiata seedlings 8,057,000

P. radiata transplants 1,136,500

P. pinaster 36,000

Other softwoods .. 253,600

Euclayptus regnans 749,500

E. delegatensis 67,000

E. cladocalyx 83,000

Other eucalypts 119,600

Assorted species 16,900

Total 10,519,100

Farm Forestry Loans.

The Farm Forestry Loan project has aroused considerable interest in the community. Approximately 500 explanatory booklets have been distributed in response to enquiries since details were first announced in September, 1965.

Seventy-eight field inspections have been undertaken and 72 firm applications received. At the close of the year many applications were at the stage where agreements were being prepared.

As the scheme gathers momentum it can be expected that private plantations established through the scheme will make a significant contribution to the total of coniferous plantations in this State.

UTILIZATION.

The trend towards use of specialized equipment for hauling and preparation of forest produce has continued. This has been encouraged by the substantial savings achieved in production costs and, to some extent, by the increasing shortage of labour.

15

A type of lightweight, rubber-tyred tractor which was tested last year has found favour with the timber industry and six of these machines were put into operation in 1965-66. They are being used for log haulage in both softwood plantations and native forests.

The use of pulpwood splitting machines was extended to Macedon district where a machine is now producing pulpwood for the Bacchus Marsh hardboard factory. Previously the use of splitting machines had been confined to Gippsland.

The use of crane-trucks to load small logs from mountain ash thinnings was extended in Upper Yarra district.

Integrated log and pulpwood operations are continuing and it is interesting to note that at Toolangi, 220 acres of 27-year-old ash regrowth returned royalty at the rate of $35 per acre for trellis quality logs and $24. 50 per acre for pulpwood.

Sawmilling.

Specialized equipment has been designed and installed in some mills to reduce production costs and improve efficiency. Two additional portable mills commenced operation in Beechworth and Orbost districts. This type of mill increases utilization of log timber as defective logs can be converted which, otherwise, it would be uneconomic to transport to distant mills.

Joint utilization committees are active in several districts. The co-ordinated approach to problems associated with the best use of available mill-log resources has proved invaluable in the smooth functioning of the industry.

Grazing.

Dry conditions throughout the State served to maintain the demand for grazing rights in forest areas. Additional areas of forest were made available for grazing under the agistment system in several districts.

Spring flooding of the Barmah Forest in 1965 promoted an excellent growth of grasses which enabled the agistment of 2,500 head of stock during the summer term. Minor flooding in autumn maintained good grazing conditions. The Commission and stock owners continue to benefit from the management advice of the Barmah Grazing Advisory Committee which was set up in 1960.

FOREST ENGINEERING. Survey anc! Design.

Engineering surveys were carried out over 84 miles in Macalister, Orbost, Cann River and Mansfield districts. Final design information was prepared for 81 miles of road.

Mt. Buller Alpine Village.

The water reticulation scheme was substantially completed. Only minor work remains to be done. Additional lodges were connected to the supply. The total length of mains is 18,500 feet. Experience during the 1965 winter showed that operation of a water supply scheme at an alpine village was not without its problems. Amongst these were the virtual cessation of inflow under severe frost conditions prior to major snowfalls and the need for repairs to mains in heavy snow.

Following survey work, district personnel constructed 36 chains of road, of which 28 was surfaced, within the village.

Road Construction.

Road Standard.

Native Forests. Major extraction roads Secondary roads Fire protection and access roads

Plantations. Primary and secondary extraction

Totals

• Not recorded separately.

!

1965-66.

Miles.

31 70

843

85

1,029

1964-65. 1963-64.

Miles. Miles.

29"57 38'59 64 234

718 668

73 * 884•57

I 940•59

16

Major and secondary road construction was directed towards providing access for present and future timber extraction requirements in mature forests in Orbost, Cann Valley and Nowa Nowa districts. Other important roading took place in regrowth forests of the Central Division, in plantations within the Ovens Valley and in Tallangatta, Beaufort and Lower Glenelg districts.

Within plantations 19 miles of roads were surfaced and, within native forests, 34 miles. Lack of all weather extraction roads reduces the effective period for removal of forest produce.

A considerable mileage of fire protection tracks and access roads was constructed in previously inaccessible mountain regions. Principal areas were Omeo (90 miles), Macalister (91 miles), Erica (79 miles) and Briagolong (75 miles), while construction of more than 30 mil~s was carried out in each of the districts of Mans:field, Corryong, Cann Valley, Orbost and Bruthen. In the past ten years more than 5,000 miles of such tracks and access roads have been constructed.

Road Maintenance.

The addition of a further 1 ,000 miles of road during this year and 880 miles last year brought the total of State forest roads in all categories to more than 17,000 miles.

Although some form of maintenance was given to 12,600 miles of road the lack of funds has again seriously limited its extent and as a result some of the road and track network is not in good condition.

Resurfacing was carried out on 98 miles of road compared to 57 miles in 1964-65 and winter access to various forest areas was thereby considerably improved. However, many miles of road require such attention. The problem is particularly acute in the Central Division where regrowth forests are now yielding considerable volumes of pulpwood with a consequent increase in heavy traffic.

Flood Control and Drainage.

It was necessary to clear drainage lines in some red gum forests to prevent undesirable water accumulation and to permit ready distribution of water throughout the forests. The healthy growth of these forests depends upon an adequate water supply which also provides benefits in increased grazing values.

Maintenance of regulating structures wasicarried out during the year as necessary.

Mechanical Plant.

Major items of plant purchased were 5 crawler tractors and 4 power graders. Thirty items of specified plant which had reached the end of their economic life were disposed of;

Despite problems created by resignations of employees, repair work at the Central Workshop, Newport, was maintained at a level similar to that of last year.

Overhauls on tractors, graders and compressors were effected as follows :-

Major Overhauls. Minor Works.

Tractors . . . . . . . . . . .. 8 142

Graders . . . . . . . . . . .. 4 33

Compressors . . . . . . .. . . l 10

Totals . . . . . . .. . . 13 185

Repair works in other categories totalled 119 separate jobs.

Field repair facilities were provided in 14 centres. Five plant inspectors continued supervision of the operation and maintenance of plant.

17

Remote Control console at Central Station of radio network.

Crop dusting aeroplane demonstrating technique of " bombing " a ground fire with fire retardant slurry.

6932 /66.- 2

18

V-blade ~dozer and tractor for fast initial attack on fires.

V-blade dozer constructing fire control line.

19

Broadcast seeding a messmate site on Nunniong plateau in Nowa Nowa district.

A dense crop of alpine ash seedlings on a logged area 1n Macalister district.

20

Forests Commission Pavilion, Royal Agricultural Society's Showgrounds. Officially opened by the Honorable L. H. S. Thompson, Minister of Forests on 20th September, 1965.

21

RECLAMATION AND CONSERVATION WORKS.

In several districts, notably Lal Lal and You Yangs, forest areas continued to be an important source of gravel.

The reclamation and reforestation of denuded areas by planting was continued. The largest single area to be treated was in Lal Lal district where 32 acres were reclaimed and planted.

FORESTRY PRISON CAMPS.

Labour from the Morwell River Prison Camp was used for clearing, nursery work and planting 413 acres of hardwood plantation on abandoned scrub-covered farmland in South Gippsland.

Construction of the Won Wron Prison Camp is continuing but no labour has yet been available to the Commission from this source.

Arrangements are in hand for the use of prison labour from the Sale gaol for planting an area in the Woodside forest.

LAW ENFORCEMENT.

Proceedings were instituted in 20 cases for breaches, other than fire offences, of the Forests Act and Regulations.

Prosecutions

Convictions

Cases dismissed

Adjourned

Fines imposed ..

Costs a warded

Compensation allowed

20

16

3

$ 306.00

26.60

439.41

In addition, an offender was charged under the Litter Act 1964, for depositing rubbish in the Sherbrooke Forest Park. In this case a fine of $10 was imposed.

TRANSPORT.

The policy of replacement of vehicles at relatively low mileages has maintained the low operating cost of the Commission's fleet of vehicles.

The 160 vehicles replaced during the year consisted of 86 administration type vehicles, 49 four-wheel drive units and 25 trucks. In addition, one four-wheel drive unit and three fire tankers were purchased.

The Commission also controlled the maintenance and replacement, where necessary, of 39 vehicles provided by the National Sirex Fund Committee and used in connexion with the eradication of the Sirex wasp in Victoria.

The technical staff of the Transport Branch carried out numerous inspections of Commission vehicles, paying particular attention to those in remote localities. These inspections resulted in major repairs being kept to a minimum and repairs under warranty being carried out within the time limitation.

The varying and exacting nature of the work of this department necessitates that new types of vehicles be investigated in an endeavour to judge their adaptability to forest work. Hence units such as Morris Mini Moke, Toyota Land Cruiser, Land Rover 109", Willys J200, Steyr Punch Haftinger, Kraka, Trespasser and Mule were supplied by the distributing firms for testing.

In an endeavour to improve the care and handling of vehicles, particularly four-wheel drive types, lectures and demonstrations have been given by section personnel to the Commission's staff and by request, to other Departments.

6932/66.-3

22

BUILDINGS.

New residences were provided for field staff at Maffra and Mildura.

A new pavilion, erected at the Royal Agricultural Society's Showgrounds to house the Commission's annual display at the Royal Show, was officially opened by the Minister of Forests, Honourable L. H. S. Thompson, M.L.C., on 20th September, 1965. The building features modern applications of Victorian timbers in association with other building materials. It replaces the original pavilion which was built in 1922.

Improvements were effected and maintenance work was carried out on 70 residences, 15 offices and 30 other buildings.

New huts and other buildings were provided at forest camps in seven districts.

FOREST FOREMEN'S TRAINING SCHOOL.

Following an examination of staffing needs in forest districts a six month's training course was organized to commence in May, 1966. From 90 applicants 40 trainees were selected. In addition two nominees from A.P.M. Forests Pty. Ltd., were accepted for training at the school. The course covers a wide range of practical and theoretical subjects. The school is staffed by selected members of the Commission's field staff, including two professional foresters.

Following successful completion of the course trainees will be posted to forests district.

The last such school was held in 1962.

EXTENSION SERVICES.

Plants sold to the public and other Government Departments and Authorities were :-

Pinus radiata ..

Other softwoods

Eucalypts

Acacias

Miscellaneous species

Total

299,023

24,976

128,610

29,197

98,536

580,342

A total of 36,000 tubed plants of native species was raised for the Fisheries and Wildlife Department for planting in State Wildlife Reserves.

Plants were supplied free to 232 State schools for endowment plantations (124,091 trees) and school arboreta (4,926 plants).

Individual tree orders totalled 5,821. Advice was given concerning tree planting in response to 2,130 telephone enquiries, 302 personal enquiries and 210 letters. A total of 8,500 nursery price lists were distributed. Seed sales to the public realized $921.

Long range developmental plans have been prepared to improve efficiency and to meet current demands being made on the Commission's three major nurseries at Creswick, Macedon and WaiL An overhead spray irrigation system has been installed at the Wimmera forest nursery, Wail.

Construction of new nursery facilities at Mildura to replace the existing Merbein nursery were nearly completed and it is anticipated that the Merbein nursery will cease production at the close of the 1966 season.

23

ECONOMICS AND MARKETING.

UTILIZATION.

The output of hardwood sawlogs from Crown lands fell by 12,928,000 (3 per cent.) to 395,000,000 super. feet H.L.V., but this was partly offset by the softwood log production of over 43,000,000 super. feet H.L.V., surpassing the previous year's record by 5,000,000 super. feet.

Close utilization has been achieved by encouraging sawmillers to rework cut-over areas removing logs which were previously regarded by them as uneconomic. The logs produced, though generally of lower standard, were welcomed as additions to the allocations of the sawmillers concerned. Sawlogs obtained during clearing of land preparatory to the establishment of softwood plantations have materially extended the life of sawmills in some areas.

The trend towards consolidation of allocations by amalgamations and take-overs, notable in areas where declining log resources have brought about reductions in log quotas, is seen as improving prospects for stability in the industry. Also, discussions have been held with representatives of the Victorian Sawmillers' Association on the possibility of revising licensing procedure to provide greater security of tenure for sawlog licencees.

FOREST PRODUCTS. Veneer Timber.

During the past few years a market has been developed for plywood made from locally grown pine logs. Increasing imports of very cheap plywood, mainly of Asian origin, have made serious inroads into this market, particularly in the fields of concrete formwork and utility grades for furniture. As a result, sales of pine peeler logs fell 25 per cent.

Hardwood veneer timber is supplied to the high grade furniture and panelling market which was not affected by the imports mentioned above and is capable of absorbing more than the present production. Production doubled during the year.

Railway Sleepers.

The increased output of sleepers recorded for the year is of no significance being mainly due to the adjustment of journal entries between departments.

No difficulty was experienced in supplying the Victorian Railways' requirements for sleepers of stringybark species. However, it has been necessary for that department to make up a deficiency in supply of red gum and box-ironbark sleepers from Victorian forests by employing contractors on the New South Wales side of the Murray River.

Generally, all sleeper-cutters are limited by quotas. Those in red gum and box-ironbark forests are indirectly imposed by the Commission regulating total output for the district while the Railways Department restricts production of stringybark species. The policy of non-replacement of cutters who move out of the industry has enabled quotas to be fixed at a level which provides reasonably full-time employment for those who remain.

Poles and Piles.

There has been a firm demand for poles and output has again increased substantially, but several factors in the pattern of demand are causing concern.

The greater part of the requirement by the State Electricity Commission is for poles of substantial dimensions and of species suitable for preservative treatment. Several districts report difficulty in meeting the demand for such produce. In some localities it has been possible to arrange supply from land being cleared for plantation extensions but the general pattern has been to extend procurement into less acessible areas, thus increasing cost. It is doubtful if the forests can maintain output of poles of this class at the present level for many more years. On the other hand, large numbers of poles of the class and sizes required by the Postmaster-General's Department are available in the naturally durable box and ironbark species and less durable hardwoods suitable for preservation and can be removed as thinnings to the advantage of the forest.

Preservative treated pine poles have made further gains in the market for shed poles and general farm building.

A few very long poles, up to lOO feet in length, have been supplied for use as radio masts.

24

Output of piles fell sharply as the result of the reduced demand by main user, the Melbourne Harbour Trust.

Fencing Materials.

There has been a strong demand for fencing timber. Production was at its highest for several years. There is little doubt that part of the increased demand arose from the need to replace fencing destroyed in the widespread fires which occurred in various country areas early in 1965.

The demand for round posts required by preservative treatment plants continues to increase. The market is valuable in providing a profitable outlet for both hardwood and softwood material removed in early thinnings. Thinnings in natural regrowth which commonly follows utilization of pine plantations are a rich source of supply of round fence posts.

Pulpwood.

Output of all classes of pulpwood has increased. During the year supply commenced to a particle board factory at Mount Gambier, South Australia. This has permitted commercial thinning in plantations near the State border which are beyond the range of economic supply to pulpwood purchasers in Victoria.

Other Forest Products.

About the same quantity of firewood was removed from State Forests as in the previous year, but this is not regarded as significantly affecting the downward trend in demand for this item.

The system of selling wattle bark by public tender was replaced by a more flexible procedure in an attempt to stimulate interest in this product. Sales were the best for several years, but were still below the capacity of the forests to supply.

Investigation is proceeding into the possibility of producing rutin, an extract of pharmaceutical value which is obtainable from the leaves of certain Eucalypt species in Victorian forests. An increase in world demand occurring at the same time as a decline in traditional overseas sources of supply is responsible.

INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS. State Sawmill, Erica.

The mill operated on mixed species hardwoods and most of the production was in normal sizes for homebuilding sold through the trade. Depressed trading conditions reduced the profit earned below that of the previous year.

Early in 1966 the mill and associated buildings, houses, &c., were offered for sale by public tender as a going concern. The successful tenderer was given possession at the close of the financial year.

The disposal of the mill at Erica brings to an end Commission participation in sawmilling for a period of 45 years. During that time many officers and employees were associated with the mill and contributed to the undertaking's satisfactory financial results. The Commission records its appreciation of their services.

Statistics for the year include :­Volume of logs converted Sawn timber produced Total net sales Net profit

Departmental Utilization Operations.

2,320,883 super. feet H.L.V. 1,315,185 super. feet $139,735

$710

The scale of these undertakings has expanded further and the proportion of net revenue to total expenditure has also increased.

Financial statistics are :-

Total expenditure .. Total revenue Royalty component of revenue Excess of net revenue over expenditure

$ 801,902

1,271,110 398,401

70,807

25

OTHER ACTIVITIES.

Commission representation was actively maintained on such bodies as the Timber Development Association of Victoria, Timber Development Council of Australia, Timber Preservers' Association and the timber committees of the Standards Association of Australia.

Inspections continued at sawmills converting pine and the treatment of suspect pine timber was supervised, as part of the campaign against the Sirex wasp.

Government bodies, the timber industry and the public in general continue to make use of the Commission's timber inspection and advisory service.

PROTECTION.

FIRE. Seasonal Conditions.

Dry conditions during winter and early spring were alleviated by above average rains in November and December. Apart from two hot spells in January the remainder of the fire season was relatively mild, rain in February, March, and April keeping fire danger to a moderate level.

Origin and Incidence of Fires.

Commission personnel attended 529 fires, of which 50 were outside and 479 inside the fire protected area. Of the latter, 121 originated in and were confined to private property, 52 originated in private property and burned into State forest, 297 originated in State forest and nine in national parks.

The total area of State forest burned was 71 ,046 acres, of which 71 per cent. was classified as non-commercial forest. The burned area includes 516 acres of plantation and 913 acres of national park.

Statistics of Fire Offences.

Prosecutions Convictions Cases dismissed

Fines Suppression costs awarded

8 7

$ 380.00 608.68

Warning letters were issued in ten instances which did not warrant prosecution.

Expend! tu re.

The recorded cost of fire suppression was $147,172.

Air Patrol.

Commission officers made seventeen flights in chartered aircraft on fire reconnaissance for a total of 36! hours flying time.

Equipment.

Facilities for loading aircraft with fire retardant chemicals for aerial bombing of remote fires were provided at Benambra and Snowy Plains. An air strip was constructed at the latter point and is the first of its kind provided by the Commission as are also the 40 helipads constructed.

Three small bulldozers with trailers were procured for fire line construction, particularly in initial attack on fires.

One helicopter was held on immediate call from January to April to enable more rapid attack on fires in inaccessible forest areas.

Replacement purchases included 6 high pressure pumps, 10 high volume pumps, 3 mobile kitchens, and 40 small low pressure pumps.

26

Twenty 150-gallon rubber tanks, 15 two-wheel trailer tanks, and 10 two-wheel trailers were purchased.

Two powered fire line trenchers were imported. Tests indicate that they will be of most use in softwood forests.

Detection.

Old structures were replaced or additional facilities provided as under :-

Forest District. Location. Structure~

Nowa Nowa

St. Arnaud

Mt. Seldom Seen (replaced) . . 30-ft. steel tower

West of England Hill (new) . . 20-ft. wooden tower

------------------------------------------------------------------

Training.

Pre-seasonal conferences of district and divisional staff to discuss fire protection planning and suppression organization were held in each field division.

Training courses were conducted in each division for personnel responsible for the operation and maintenance of equipment.

Selected personnel were given familiarization training in the chartered helicopter.

Co-ordination.

Officers were nominated for Regional Co-ordinating Committees throughout the State. Each Committee compiled a statement of the resources available for firefighting within the Region.

Personnel participated with other organizations m field exercises designed to facilitate control of combined operations at major fires.

Cloud Seeding.

Cloud seeding of specific cloud formations was carried out in January and February, suitable clouds being found on seven occasions. Twenty flights were undertaken. The total cost of the operation was $5,431.

Support Crew.

Eighteen university students employed during the peak of the fire season were trained and used as a mobile support crew for fire suppression.

Installations.

Mobiles (replacements)

Mobiles (additions)

Portables (additions)

TELECOMMUNICATIONS.

Fixed stations-towers and camps (additions)

Base station (addition) ..

Repeaters (HF) (replacements)

Repeaters (VHF) (addition)

91

15

50

8

2

1

A complete VHF low-band system was installed in the Otways districts, based on an automatic repeater at Beech Forest.

A new console of modern design with additional facilities for switching and monitoring was installed at the Central Station remote control centre, VL3AA in Melbourne.

27

Helical aerials of new design were installed at 25 locations, three of which were base stations. One hundred and fifty mobile helical aerials were installed, replacing both the older types of base loaded aerials and the long helix. One of each of these three types of helical aerials have been loaned to the Postmaster-General's Department, at their request, for evaluation and testing.

Development and Design.

Design work was completed on the HF transistor portable.

Development of a transistorised HF /VHF repeater is continuing, and is nearing completion.

Immediate Plans.

An order has been placed for 200 HF transistor portables and initial deliveries are expected in December, 1966.

The present central receiving site at South Morang is becoming increasingly subject to interference. Furthermore, the Postmaster-General's Department, which owns the premises, has requested that the Commission vacate the site. Investigations have been commenced at No. 4 camp, Broadford District, to assess this location for development as a central receiving site.

Application has been made to the Postmaster-General's Department for five additional VHF frequencies for field use.

A new base station has been planned for Lal Lal Forest Office.

FIRE RESEARCH.

Fire behaviour studies were conducted in both eucalypt forests and softwood plantations. This work is yielding information upon which to formulate prescriptions for the safe use of fire in forests. Field staff have been issued with guides to assist them when using fire to reduce natural fuel accumulations over broad areas and also for burning eucalypt and pine slash. The work is continuing to include all instances where: fire is used in the forests.

Wildfire damage was studied in a P. radiata plantation at Creswick. The damage caused by the fire and its correlation with weather, fuel, topography and utilization practices are being analysed.

Damage appraisal studies were continued in eucalypt forests to determine the effect of wildfires and prescribed burning on forest values.

Experiments to test the practicability of dropping fire retardant chemical on to a fire from an aircraft were concluded. On the basis of the results of trials held over the past three years, a technique has been developed for bombing fires with chemicals. Further tests were made with commercial fire retardant chemicals. A standard field test is being developed to compare the relative efficiency of the chemicals.

Cloud seeding operations were initiated, modelled on experimental techniques developed by the Division of Radiophysics, C.S.LR.O. Only clouds believed to offer a good chance of rain after seeding were treated.

BIOLOGICAL. Animals.

Ground and aerial baiting of rabbits with l 080 poison was carried out in plantation areas in the Western, South-Western, Southern, and North-Eastern divisions.

Possums continued to cause periodic, localized damage in softwood plantations at Mirboo and Loch Valley.

Kangaroos were responsible for damage in eucalypt forest at Killawarra and in softwood plantations at Beechworth and Narbethong. At Beechworth, damage was so severe as to necessitate application for permits to shoot some of the animals.

Insects.

Paropsis orphana caused defoliation of Black Wattle at Balrook, Heywood district.

The wingless grasshopper, Phaulacridium vittatrum, caused light damage to eucalypt regrowth in the Casterton district and to P. radiata at Rennick.

28

An infestation of Army caterpillar, Pseudoletia australis, at the Trentham nursery was controlled using D.D.T. spray.

Widespread attacks by Ambrosia beetle on Eucalyptus gigantea stands south of Tallangatta have affected the availability of timber suitable for seasoning.

Extensive damage caused by the leaf skeletonizer, Roeselia lugens, has been recorded by Yarrawonga, Casterton, Barmah, Niagaroon, and Shepparton districts.

An area in the Ada River region carrying a heavy population of the phasmatid, Didymuria violescens, was successfully sprayed with a malathion solution. Elsewhere, populations of this insect remained static.

Destruction of sirex infested trees continued as part of the National Sirex Campaign. Crews working on 364 properties, destroyed 4,530 trees and removed limbs from 2,606 other trees.

Destruction of dead pine trees in private property and Commission plantations continued.

Weeds.

South African Bone Seed, Chrysanthemoides monilifera, has continued to spread in the You Yangs Forest Park. Trial spraying has been undertaken to combat the weed.

Treatment of trees affected by mistletoe and dodder has continued in Killawarra, Bendigo, Dunolly, Rushworth, and Ballarat forests.

Ragwort is prevalent in forest areas in the Yarram district.

Fungi. Armillaria mellea is still active at Mt. Cole, Beaufort district. Elsewhere no significant

spread of the fungus has been reported.

The incidence of Diplodia pinea in second rotation P. radiata stands at Bright is causing concern and is the subject of research.

EDUCATION AND RESEARCH.

EDUCATION.

School of Forestry, Creswick.

Thirty four students were in residence during the 1965 academic year and all eleven senior students were awarded the associate diploma of the School of Forestry, Creswick. Nine students commenced the course in 1966, making a total of 31 students in residence.

University of Melbourne.

Messrs. W. D. Incoll, G. L. Morrison, R. 0. Squire, and A. A. Thornley, qualified for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Forestry. Messrs. D. G. Buntine, I. R. Kennedy, F. P. Lawless, P. G. Sheehan, and R. D. Spencer, are in their final year, and M. D. Clark, A. D. Manderson, L. G. Pope, J. H. Taylor, G. M. A. Waayers, and P. J. Young commenced the course in 1966.

Mr. B. F. Gib son has gained a university free-place and is studying mathematics and statistics.

Mr. L. A. Pederick is in the final stages of studies for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. Messrs. F. G. Craig and J. E. Opie are continuing their studies towards that degree.

Mr. I. C. A. Weir was awarded a Reserve Bank of Australia post-graduate studentship tenable for two years at the School of Forestry, University of Melbourne.

Overseas and Other Studies.

Dr. R. J. Grose has commenced research at the Petawawa Forest Experiment Station under a Post-doctorate Fellowship award of the National Research Council of Canada.

Mr. R. G. Orr is continuing his studies at the Commonwealth Forestry Institute, Oxford.

e Horsham

• estawel!

•• e Hamilton

eCharltan

VICTORIA

SHOWING GENERAL LOCATION OF FORESTS COMMISSION SOFTWOOD PLANTATIONS AND EXTENSION PROJECTS

Existing Plantations

Plantation Ext.,nsion Proi.,cts ( 4000 Acru •

( 4000 Acres + ) 4000 Acres + ) 4000 Acru •

Sheppartone Wangarattae Beechwo;th -- + + •••

eBendigo •+ + + eMyrtleford

eBright

Benallae

•• e Seymour •• C astremalne

... ... j ecreswick • 'T' 'T' T. • eMacedon Ballarat e

MELBOURNE

• eMansfield

•+ e Healesvl!le

•• ewarragul

eMorwell

Bairnsdalee

BASS STRAIT

SCALE OF M I LES

o eo 1 oo

29

The Fire Protection Officer, Mr. V. P. Cleary, attended a Fire Generalship Course conducted by the U.S. Forest Service at Marana, Arizona, in January, 1966, subsequently visiting forest areas in Arizona and California. The Commonwealth and all States shared the cost of Mr. Cleary's attendance at this course.

The Fire Research Officer, Mr. A. Hodgson, was awarded a Churchill Scholarship and left for the United States in April, 1966. For a period of twelve months he will work at fire research laboratories in the United States and Canada.

The International Symposium on Forestry Hydrology in the United States and the UNESCO Symposium on Experimental and Representative Catchments in Hungary were attended by Dr. H. L. Teller during September-October, 1965. Financial assistance for his visit was provided jointly by the Government of Victoria, the International Association of Scientific Hydrology and Pennsylvania State University.

Mr. F. G. Neumann has returned to duty with the Department after studies in entomology at the University of New South Wales.

Mr. J. A. Harris has resumed duty with the Department following the award of a Bachelor of Science degree by the University of Melbourne.

The Diploma of Forestry (Victoria) was awarded to Mr. S. F. Duncan for a thesis entitled "A Critical Examination of Certain Aspects of Firebreak Construction and Maintenance in the Western Highlands of Victoria", and to Mr. G. Minko for a thesis entitled "Injurious Insects Affecting Pinus radiata in Ovens Plantation ".

RESEARCH. Silviculture.

Techniques for the regeneration of cut-over forests by the use of aerial seeding have received considerable attention.

In early trials some difficulty was experienced with uneven distribution of seed but results of recent work indicate considerable success in obtaining uniform seed distribution. This has been achieved by increasing seed size by coating with kaolin to which D.D.T. and a fungicide are added. Sago is mixed with the coated seed to enlarge further the material distributed per acre. It is then dyed a bright yellow to facilitate ground inspection and to permit immediate hand seeding of any areas missed. Seed of six eucalypt species has been used.

A study of economic guides for establishment of even aged stands of ash type eucalypts has been commenced.

Extensive experiments with applications of different rates of an arboricide have been conducted in order to desiccate unwanted scrub vegetation on unstocked areas as a first stage in preparation of the site for regeneration of desired tree species. Herbicides with selective effect have been used to remove competing vegetation from newly established pine plantations without damage to the pine seedlings. Chemical control of scrub encroachment on roadsides was undertaken on an operational trial scale ; some 69 · 7 miles of roads were treated on a contract basis. Preliminary results with 2, 4-D /2, 4, 5-T mixture and 2, 4, 5-T alone have been encouraging.

A research project on the regeneration of river red gum forests (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) has been concluded, although some field trials based on research results will be maintained. Reports on the flood history and a five year plan for regeneration and thinning work in the Barmah Forest were completed.

Seed dormancy induced by high temperatures in the field has been studied. Germination studies have continued with emphasis on pre-germination techniques to remove the primary seed dormancy of further eucalpyt species.

Thinning research was continued in E. regnans with the establishment of 26 one-acre plots in 1939 regrowth. Other permanent plots in older stands were re-measured. Similar work has been commenced on a series of E. delegatensis plots. Pre-commercial thinning of 40 acres of mixed species forest in the Gembrook area was carried out using an arboricide, Tordon SOD. Plots to measure response, growth and stand structure were established. The height /age relationship was studied in alpine ash at Mt. Margaret.

A two-year investigation of the rate of degrade of fire-killed alpine ash was completed. The degree of radial checking was related to the moisture content of the wood of the standing dead trees. A joint project, with the Division of Forest Products of C.S.I.R.O., is being carried out to study the effect of environmental factors on shrinkage properties of alpine ash timber.

6932/68.--4

30

An initial series of sample plots has been established at three plantations to measure the competitive effect of wattle and eucalypt regrowth in development ofyoung Pinus radiata plantations. Considerable savings of manpower and cleaning costs could result from this study. Additional plots will be established next summer.

A study of the effects of site factors and cultural practices on log quality of P. radiata is continuing. A survey of the incidence and severity of stem malformation was carried out in high quality stands in the Ovens Valley. A series of plots has been established to investigate the effects of early non-merchantable thinning, branch occlusion and crown development following pruning and factors influencing branch and stem development. A study is being made of the rate of degrade of timber in standing, fire-killed pine trees (P. radiata and P. nigra).

Experimental work has been undertaken in nursery techniques. Fertilizer and spacing trials were established in six P. radiata nurseries. With the aim of replacing the costly existing practice of pricking E. regnans seedlings into tubes, trials were commenced with a method of direct seeding into tubes.

Further controlled pollinations were carried out between selected "plus" trees as part of the breeding programme for improvement of P. radiata. This work was undertaken in the clonal arboretum at Creswick. The total area of seed orchard established to date is 40 acres. Flowering has commenced but there is as yet very little pollen production.

Owing to difficulties of importing cork oak acorns from Portugal, futher acorns were obtained by collection from various trees in Victoria. Severe losses were experienced when open­rooted seedlings were planted out. Subsequent work has been carried out with tubed seedlings.

Hydrology.

The accent of research has continued to be on water quality and on the effects of hazard reduction burning on surface run-off and sediment movement. Water quality investigations are being carried out on eight experimental catchments, as well as on a number of non-experimental areas. Run-off plots 4esigned to measure the effect of fire on surface run-off and sediment movement are in operation in two localities.

Pathology.

The fungus Diplodia pinea has been shown, contrary to prior reports, to cause dead-top disease in P. radiata. Investigations in the Ovens Valley have shown the fungus to be a wound parasite, associated with cankers and stem malformations causing degrade of log quality.

A technique has been developed for assaying both quantitatively and qualitatively the mycorrhiza populations in stands of P. radiata. The study is to examine the effects of silvicultural practices on mycorrihizas. The fine structure of the mycorrhizas of P. radiata and Pseudotsuga menziesii has been studied using both electron and light microscopy in co-operation with the Division of Forests Products, C.S.I.R.O.

Entomology.

The Sirex Wood Wasp.

Detection and eradication of sirex has continued. Sirex noctilio is now known to be present in the Ballan, Meredith-Ana.kie area, a spread of about 30 miles westward from previously known infestations.

Sampling of commercial plantations in the Ballarat-Scarsdale area has not revealed sirex, although experience elsewhere in Victoria suggests that some at least of the plantations have been challenged. Of the 411 properties on which sirex was found during the year, 254 were not previously recorded as sirex infested.

Generally, there has been an appreciable reduction in the sirex population. Actual spread has not stopped but has been greatly reduced. As yet the insect has not been located at any point north of the Great Dividing Range.

The eastern limit of sirex infestation has not changed this year, but additional finds have been made in South Gippsland.

31

No parasites were released into the field in 1965-66 but an active parasite breeding programme has been commenced using lbalia leucospoides, an egg parasite, supplied from New Zealand and Tasmania and collected locally from areas where Ibalia has been released previously. In addition stocks of a larval parasite Megarhyssa nortoni were received from Tasmania for breeding purposes. The delay in field release is due to the possible presence of nematodes, which may reduce the efficacy of the parasitic insects.

A trap tree technique using high ringbarked trees is being developed as a means of sampling unknown areas and also to attract populations in known infested areas. This technique was worked out by research in Tasmania conducted under the auspices of the National Sirex Fund Committee.

At a meeting in Canberra on 1st April, 1966, Commonwealth and State Ministers agreed to recommend to their governments that the National Sirex Campaign be continued for a further year.

Forest Insects.

The distribution of Ambrosia beetle in live alpine ash is being mapped and a sawmill recovery study was undertaken to correlate external symptoms with internal degrade.

A planned programme on the pine shoot moth which periodically causes damage in Yarrowee Plantation, Ballarat, has been temporarily halted.

Summary of Sirex Infestations as at 30th June, 1966.

Number of Properties Involved. Class.

Metropolitan. Gippsland. Total.

1. Old exit holes-no live stages found 74 9 83 2. Old exit holes and live stages present 55 4 59 3. Old exit holes-live stages present and emergence 1965--66 35 4 39 4. Old and 1965-66 seasons exit holes-no live stages found 15 15 5. Live stages found-no emergence 87 2 89 6. Live stages found and emergence 1965--66 58 2 60 7. Emergence 1965-66-no live stages found 30 3 33 8. Oviposition 1965-66 and/or live females collected 4 4 9. Suspect sirex 23 6 ! 29

Totals 381 30 I

411

PuBLIC RELATIONS.

Imaginative use of Victorian timbers throughout the new pavilion erected at the Royal Show Grounds added to the interest of a "Farm Forestry" display. It was seen by an estimated 90,000 visitors.

The Commission was a joint sponsor of the successful " House of the Year " and associated timber industry exhibit at the Ideal Homes Show in April, 1966.

News releases were supplied to Melbourne press, radio and television and, through divisional and district officers, to all country news services. Television stations gave good coverage to Commission film and comment on the increasing use of light aircraft for forest regeneration and protection.

A rare species of eucalypt, Eucalyptus crenulata, which was in danger of extinction, was propagated in Commission's nurseries and has been the subject of much interest by the public.

Requests from members of the public and from schools for information and photographs increased.

The mobile film unit screened twenty programmes and speakers from Head Office and country districts met numerous requests for lectures and career guidance.

32

TECHNICAL PUBLICATIONS.

The following publications were issued :-

1. Papers by Commission staff in external journals :-(a) "Bacteriological water quality from forested municipal catchments" by

H. L. Teller (1966), Civil Engineering Transactions, Vol. CE 8, No. 1, April, 1966. Paper presented at Hydrology Symposium, Melbourne, August, 1965.

(b) "The classification and distribution of the mycorrhizas of Pinus radiata D. Don" by G. C. Marks (1965).-Aust. For. 29 : 238-251.

tc) "The fine structure of the mycorrhizas of Pinus radiata D. Don" by R. C. Foster and G. C. Marks (1966).-Aust. J. Biol. Sci. (In press).

(d) "Chemical control of eucalypt vegetation" by E. P. Bachelard, A. Sarfaty and P. M. Attiwill.-Aust. For. 29 : 181-191.

(e) "Natural distribution of Eucalypts in Victoria" by F. R. Moulds.-Victoria's Resources, Vol. 7, No. 3, September-November, 1965.

(/) "Wattle forests of Victoria's mountains "-by J. D. Gillespie-Victoria's Resources Vol. 7, No. 3, September-November, 1965.

(g) "Regeneration of eucalypt forests" by R. J. Grose.-Victoria's Resources, Vol. 7, No. 3, September-November, 1965.

(h) "The influence of research on forestry practice "-by R. J. Grose.-Victoria's Resources, Vol. 7, No. 1 March-May, 1966.

2. Forestry Research No. 7, June, 1966.

3. Forestry Technical Papers, No. 16, November, 1965.

4. Miscellaneous publications : (a) "Farm Forestry Loans", September, 1965 ; revised Feb., 1966. (b) "Forests and Forestry in the Upper Goulburn Region", Natural Resources

Convention, Upper Goulburn Region, October, 1965. (c) "Planting Radiata Pine".

5. Other Papers : (a) "International Symposium on Forest Hydrology and International Symposium

on Representative and Experimental Catchments-Report on an overseas trip" by H. L. Teller (1965).-F. C. Vie., October, 1965.

(b) "The pathogenicity and persistence of Diplodia pinea (Desm.) Kickx. in Pinus radiata D. Don" by G. C. Marks, R. J. Grose and G. Minko, (1966)-6th World Forestry Conference, Spain, Code No. 6CFM/E/C. TII/21.

(c) "Analysis of a Forest Management Situation by Linear Programming" by D. W. M. Paine.

CONFERENCES.

The Minister and the Chairman were members of the Australian delegation to the Sixth World Forestry Congress held at Madrid, Spain, in June, 1966. The Chairman participated in associated study tours and will elsewhere investigate forestry aspects of interest and of value to this State.

The third meeting of the Australian Forestry Council held at Bu1olo, New Guinea in August, 1965, was attended by the Minister and Mr. Commissioner Benallack. The fourth meeting held at Brisbane in March, 1966, was attended by the Minister and the Chairman. A meeting of the Standing Committee of the Council held in Canberra in November-December, 1965, was also attended by the Chairman.

The Minister and the Chairman attended the National Sirex Campaign Conference at Canberra in April, 1966. The Chairman also attended four meetings of the National Sirex Fund Committee and a meeting of the Sirex Survey and Eradication Sub-Committee.

The Chairman attended two meetings of the Heads of Forest Services.

The 19th AUS.TJ.S. Conference at Hobart in March and April, 1966, was attended by Mr. Commissioner Benallack, the Chief of the Division of Economics and Marketing, and by Mr. J. D. Gillespie and Mr. J. P. Brisbane.

The Chief of the Division of Forest Protection and the Fire Protection and Fire Research Officers attended a conference of fire control officers at Sydney in July, 1965.

33

Other conferences at which the Commission was represented by officers included the following :-

International Union of Forestry Research Organizations Conference, Melbourne-October, 1965.

Australian Forestry Research Conference, Canberra,-September, 1965. Plant Quarantine Conference, Canberra,-July, 1965. Institution of Engineers Hydrology Symposium, Melbourne,-August, 1965.

The Accountant and the Chief of the Division of Forestry Education and Research attended the Public Service Board Management Conference in November, 1965.

ADMINISTRATION.

PERSONNEL.

Statement of Personnel as at 30th June, 1966.

Division. Administrative. Pro esstona . General. f, • 1

1

Technical and Temporary. Casual. Totals •

•

Central Administration-Administration .. . . 48 . . 21 26 1 96 Forest Management .. . . 8 37 5 5 .. 55 Forest Operations . . .. 6 12 35 16 65* 134 Economics and Marketing .. 3 5 2 4 2 16 Forest Protection . . .. 1 6 12 2 27 48 Forestry Education and Research 3 29 5 6 8 51

Field Administration-Central . . . . . . .. 19 37 3 133 192 Eastern .. . . . . . . 21 23 6 74 124 North-Eastern .. . . 2 23 33 10 219 287 Northern . . .. . . 1 13 35 8 66 123 Southern . . .. . . 1 21 24 5 119 170 South-Western .. . . 1 26 48 12 165 252 Western .. . . . . 1 17 24 6 91 139

Totals .. . . . . 75 229t 304 109 970 1,687

• Includes 42 forest foremen trainees. t Includes fourteen officers at University (Forest Management, S ; Education and Research, S ; Field Administration, 4).

Staff. The following graduates from the School of Forestry, Creswick, were appointed to the

Professional Division of the Public Service :-

Messrs. R. J. Cahill, P. L. Connell, D. W. Flinn, P. J. Greig, R. J. Hill, M. H. McKinty, G. J. Pope, T. K. Rouse, T. L. Sloan, G. J. Squires, M. D. Wade.

The Commission records its appreciation of the outstanding service of Divisional Forester F. S. Incoll who has retired after 44 years service with the Department.

Mr. C. R. G. Venville was appointed to the office of Chief of the Division of Forest Management, vacated by Dr. F. R. Moulds on his appointment as Commissioner.

Mr. C. W. Elsey was appointed Chief of the Division of Forest Operations, vice Mr. A. W. Shillinglaw on extended sick leave.

Mr. J. H. Cosstick was appointed Officer-in-Charge, General Operations Branch, Division of Forest Operations.

The Commission records its appreciation of the loyal and valued service rendered by the following officers who retired during the year :-Messrs. E. R. Jones, R. L. Ingram, M. J. Peart, H. Ellett, D. G. Craig, J. J. Hageman, W. G. T. Welch, J. L. P. Gill, W. M. Smith, S. G. Ritchie, M. P. Brien, A. J. Murphy and Miss R. Ettingoff.

It is with deep regret that the Commission records the deaths of Messrs. J. W. Nugent, E. B. John and J. J. Doyle.

6932/66.-5

34

Industrial.

No industrial disputes occurred. Several complaints from Unions were settled by negotiation.

A new log of claims was submitted by the Australian Workers' Union resulting in an over-all increase in margins.

An industry allowance increase of $1.50 granted by the Arbitration and Conciliation Commission under various awards has meant a wage increase for most exempt employees.

The number of Workers' Compensation claims decreased from 580 in 1964-65 to 460 in 1965-66.

Staff Training.

Attendance at Public Service Board courses was as follows :-

Course. Administrative

•

Professional Other. Totals. Officers. Officers.

Management Conference . . . . 1 1 .. 2 1964 Management Conference Follow-

up Conference .. . . . . 1 1 .. 2 Training for lecturers on P.S.B. Courses 1 . . .. 1 Project Planning . . . . . . 2 . . .. 2 Supervision . . .. . . 1 7 1 9 Organization and Methods Training .. 1 . . .. 1 Class "C "-"Cl " . . .. 4 7 . . 11 Induction .. . . . . . . 8 1 .. 9

Totals . . .. . . 19 17 1 37

Departmental training was as follows :-

•

Administrative Officers. Professional Officers. Totals.

Induction of Graduates from School of Forestry .. 11 11

Induction of Class " E " Clerks . . . . 6 .. 6

Totals . . . . .. . . 6 11 17

External training was provided for seven trainees from the Australian Administrative Staff College who were studying the relationship between Government and Business.

Entrance interviews were conducted with new appointees to the Department.

Nineteen officers were granted study leave by the Public Service Board during 1966.

Methods.

A continuous methods review throughout the department is being maintained.

The departmental Forms Review Committee was reconstituted as the Methods Review Committee. Its terms of reference provide for a systematic review of all departmental forms and the methods associated with the compilation and use of these forms.

Conversion of machines and relevant documents was effected following the introduction of Decimal Currency. As part of the conversion programme, there was an extension of mechanization of Accounts Branch activities.

STORES.

The value of stores on hand decreased by $29,135 to $353,535.

The credit balance of the Stores section of the Suspense Account as at 30th June, 1966, was $94,652.

35

FINANCIAL.

The expansion of the Commission's softwood plantation programme, commenced in 1960-61, has reached the stage where, apart from annual establishment costs, maintenance of the growing stock is making and will continue to make increasing demands on available financial resources. The Commission's ability to meet these demands is restricted by the continuing cost spiral and the essential servicing of hardwood forests.

The escalation of costs can be met either by increasing income from royalties or by a reduction in forest works. Since the latter is untenable, it follows that, if the Commission is to meet work programmes and service its loan liability, re-assessment of income from time to time will be unavoidable.

1964--65

407,883,058

38,140,282 40,635

367,381

4,059,330 56,070

1,231,753

123,058

52,710

20,040

337,320 487,934

135,790 1,246,665

53,951

451,910 22,538

75,966 64,318

6,634,453 2,037,171

Nil 48,532

13,691,350 2,887

333,447 7,857

2,369 13,564

8,092

11,308

92,530 84

119

730,531 48

200

36

APPENDIX I.

STATEMENT OF OUTPUT OF PRODUCE FROM STATE FORESTS-1965-66.

(With comparative figures for 1964-65.)

Milling timber-

Mill logs, hardwood .. Mill logs, softwood Mill billets, hardwood Veneer logs, hardwood .. Veneer, logs softwood Veneer billets, hardwood ..

Fencing timber-

Posts, strainers and stays (hardwood) Posts, strainers and stays (softwood) Droppers Rails ..

Beams and bridge timbers Sleepers

Piles, poles and spars­

Piles Poles (hardwood) Poles (softwood) Miscellaneous (hardwood) Miscellaneous (softwood)

Mining timber­

Round Squared or split

Pulpwood-

Hardwood, for paper Softwood, for paper Softwood, for particle board Hardwood, for hardboard

Firewood-

Stacked and longwood Milled blocks ..

Miscellaneous timbers­

Stakes and props Chopping blocks House blocks Sleeper offcuts Bed logs

Minor Produce­

Christmas trees .. Eucalyptus oil Tan Bark Charcoal Sand, gravel, loam, stone, &c. Pine Cones Moss ..

1965-66

.. 394,955,609 super. feet H.L.V. 43,135,547 super. feet H.L.V.

61,138 super. feet 628,381 super. feet H.L.V.

3,105,607 super. feet H.L.V. 163,447 super. feet

1 ,346, 786 number 248,286 number 52,518 number 6,610 number

193,780 super. feet 569,566 number

50,696 lineal feet 1,590,537 lineal feet

28,356 lineal feet 365,336 lineal feet 69,758 lineal feet

62,709 lineal feet 89,443 super. feet

7,022,039 cubic feet 2,407,863 cubic feet

52,091 cubic feet 65,092 tons

13,656,500 cubic feet 3,076 tons weight

258,693 number 6, 768 number 2,423 number

15,644 number 7,323 number

11,846 number 104,264 lb.

155 tons 61 tons

562,004 cubic yards 37 bags

400 bags

37

APPENDIX 11.

CAUSES OF FIRE

Percentage Area of State Cause-Known or Suspected. Number of Outbreaks. of Total Forest or National

Outbreaks. Parks Burned

Acres.

Grazing interests .. . . . . . . 1 0·19 10,000

Landowners or householders .. . . 115 21·74 5,240

Deliberate lighting . . .. . . . . 57 10·78 28,503

Sportsmen, campers, tourists .. . . 63 11·91 18,415

Licencees and forest workers . . .. 20 3·78 2,108

Smokers . . . . .. . . . . 50 9·45 374

Lightning . . . . .. . . . . 83 15·69 2,676

Tractors, cars, trucks, stationary engines, &c . . . 16 3·02 12

Children . . . . . . . . .. 21 3·97 9

Sawmills . . . . .. . . . . 8 1· 51 2

Miscellaneous known causes .. . . 32 6·05 94

Unknown origin . . .. . . . . 63 11·91 3,613

Totals .. . . . . . . 529 100·00 71,046

APPENDIX Ill.

SUMMARY OF FIRES AND AREAS BURNED.

Area Burned, Number of Fires within Fire Protected Area.

Affecting State Forest Number and National Parks. of Fires Total

Originated attended Number Division. Outside State National in and Fire of Fires

Forest. Parks. Total. Originated in- Confined Total. Protected Attended. to Private Property. Area.

I Private I State 'National

Property. Forest. Parks. ·-

Acres. Acres. Acres.

Central .. 40 . . 40 5 12 1 15 33 4 37

Eastern .. 1,475 909 2,384 . . 31 5 13 49 2 51

Northern . . 2,912 .. 2,912 8 64 . . . . 72 12 84

North 1,116 .. 1,116 2 42 I 30 75 1l 86 Eastern

Southern . . 21,089 .. 21,089 6 38 . . 7 51 4 ss South 22,910 4 22,914 22 54 2 39 117 12 129

Western Western . . 20,591 .. 20,591 9 56 . . 17 82 5 87

Totals .. 70,133 913 71,046 52 1297 9 121 479 50 529

38

APPENDIX IV.

TYPE OF AREA BURNED IN STATE FOREST ANV NATIONAL PARKS.

-!

I Division. Merchantable. Young Re-growth. Non-Commercial. Total.

Acres. Acres. Acres. Acres.

Central .. . . . . . . 22 . . 18 40 Eastern . . .. . . . . 659 10 1,715 2,384 Northern . . . . . . .. 1,200 277 1,435 2,912 North Eastern . . . . .. 989 25 102 1,116 Southern .. .. . . . . 4,018 2,771 14,300 21,089 South Western .. . . . . 7,497 I 1,425 13,992 22,914 Western .. . . . . . . 915 505 19,171 20,591

Totals . . . . .. 15,300 5,013 50,733 71,046 I

Percentage of Total Area .. 21·53 7·06 71·41 100

APPENDIX V.

CLASSIFICATION OF FIRE ACREAGES IN STATE FOREST AND NATIONAL PARKS.

Number of Fires.

Division.

I I Total Number 0-10 ll-100 101-500 501-1,000 1 1,001-10,000 10,000+ Acres. Acres~ Acres. Acres. Acres. Acres. of Fires.

Central . . . . 18 . . .. . . . . . . 18 Eastern . . . . 22 8 5 1 . . .. 36 Northern . . . . 57 10 4 .. 1 . . 72 North Eastern . . 37 7 . . 1 . . .. 45 Southern . . . . 36 4 2 .. 1 1 44 South Western .. 54 11 7 3 2 1 78 Western . . . . 37 12 9 2 5 i .. 65

Totals .. 261 52 27 7 9 2 358

Percentage of Total Fires .. 172·91 114·53 7·54 1·94 2·52 0·56 lOO

APPENDIX VI.

MONTHLY OUTBREAKS OF FIRE.

Number of Fires, Total D' .. lVlSJOfi. Number July. Aug. Sept. Oct. i Nov. Dec. Jan. Feb. March. April.

! of Fires. !

May. June.

! ! , ___ ---

Central .. .. .. .. 5 2 . . 13 6 9 2 . . . . 37

Eastern .. .. . . 10 2 2 6 25 5 1 . . . . . . 51

Northern .. .. . . 1 14 15 11 22 6 8 6 1 . . 84

North 1 . . . . 1 7 16 36 14 7 4 .. . . 86 Eastern

Southern . . . . . . .. 12 3 8 20 7 4 1 . . . . 55

South .. .. 3 35 13 15 25 12 18 8 . . . . 129 Western

Western . . . . .. . . 21 8 9 19 9 9 12 . . .. 87

I --- --- ---------! Totals . . ' 1 . . 14 90 50 65 160 59 56 33 1 .. 529

1 0·19 ------ ---

Percentage . . 2·65 17·01 9·45 lt 30·25 ·15 6·24 i 0·19 .. I

100

39

APPENDIX VII.

PROTECTION WORKS-SUMMARY. Firebreaks, &c.-

Length of firebreaks constructed

Length of firebreaks maintained

Length of firelines constructed

Length of firelines maintained

Area of fuel reduction burning

Water Conservation­

Dams-

More than 400 cubic yards capacity­

Constructed

Maintained ..

Less than 400 cubic yards capacity­

Constructed

Maintained

Weirs and tanks constructed

Weirs and tanks maintained

Deep bores constructed

Deep bores maintained

Springs cleaned ..

Towers and look-out cabins­

New constructions

Maintained

Dugouts-

Constructed by Commission

Maintained by Commission

Constructed by other interests

Maintained by other interests

Telephone lines-

Erected by Commission

Maintained by Commission

Constructed by other interests

Maintained by other interests

Fireplaces­

Constructed

Maintained

96·9 miles

556·0 miles

76·5 miles

385·4 miles

464,579 acres

22

601

27

550

3

89

Nil

5

46

2

106

2

78

3

97

37·9 miles

378· 3 miles

Nil

11·25 miles

76

803

40

APPENDIX VIII.

CONTRACTS. Statement of contracts under seal entered into during the year ended 30th June, 1966.

Name of Contractor.

R. Cheyne Pty. Ltd. K. and P. McMahon Traralgon Quarries Pty.

Ltd. L. Child and H. Jeeves ..

R. Page and Sons P. Roitman

Knight and Rendell Pty. Ltd.

J. A. Marty ..

Condon Bros. Pty. Ltd ...

Knight and Rendell Pty. Ltd.

Norman Hodges W. E. Stevens C. and P. Akse Riquier Bros.

S. Sandor

Jewell and Sim Electrical

Work or Service.

Clearing planting area (2,255 acres approx.) Erection of residence and double garage Supply of 2,400 cubic yards of crushed

rock Clearing and formation of Olinda Golf

Links Erection of mess hut and ablutions block Erection of shelter shed at Olinda Golf

Links Supply of 1,320 cubic yards of crushed

rock Construction of additional holes, Olinda

Golf Links Supply of 1,600 cubic yards of crushed

rock Supply of 5,000 cubic yards of shale and

1,090 cubic yards of crushed rock Supply of 6,000 cubic yards of gravel .. Erection of extensions to residence Erection of three-bay garage .. Erection of employees' quarters-Kent­

bruck camp Erection of residence, single garage,

nursery building, and toilet Electrical installations to residences, &c.

Supplemental Adjustments.

Forest District.

Lower Glenelg Briagolong Neerim

Dandenong

Bright Dandenong

Gellibrand

Dandenong

Forrest

Gellibrand

Benalla Daylesford Yarram Lower Glenelg

Mildura

Erica

Amount.

$ $18 per acre

13,300.00 7,140.00

3,550.00

8,498.00 5,930.00

2,772.00

4,313.00

3,840.00

10,452.50

8,791.20 687.00

2,126.00 11,020.00

15,912.00

1,240.25

1. J. A. Marty-$4,313. 00.-Due to storm damage during performance of contract, restoration work and additional drainage considered necessary was approved to value of $1,160.00. Total value of Contract is, therefore, $5,473. 00.

2. Norman Hodges-$8,791.20.-An extra amount of $697.40 was involved due to the failure of a bridge on the cartage route, resulting in longer cartage distance and consequent increase in cartage costs.

3. In respect of contract with Conpor Pty. Ltd. ($54,333. 90), entered into during 1964-65 and shown in report for that year, an extra amount of $1,631.70 was approved during 1965-66 for lining of reservoir.

The statement of contracts does not include these amounts.

APPENDIX IX.

LOAN EXPENDITURE FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 1965-66. (Showing Comparative figures for 1964-65.)

1965-66.

Item. Expenditure Authorized Under-

Act No. 7172. Act No. 7367. Total. ------

$ $ $ Fire Protection . . . . . . .. 123,918 330,833 454,751 General Forest Operations . . .. . . 54,056 117,885 171,941 Timber Extraction Roads . . . . .. 96,743 215,949 312,692 Plantations . . .. . . . . 303,479 626,161 929,640 Fixed Assets . . . . . . .. 58,577 54,518 113,095 Purchase of Land .. . . . . .. 26,535 49,589 76,124 Purchase of Plant and Machinery . . .. 3,075

I 15,615 18,690

666 383 1 410 550 2 076 933

NoTE :-The above figures include expenditure on the following special works.

Plantation Expansion Programme Tamboritha Saddle Road Bennison Roading .. Prison Camps

1965~6.

$ 647,314

17,326 21,309

1964-65.

Total.

$ 421,180 177,896 386,454 950,224 72,794 62,698 20,558

2 091 804

1964-65.

$ 682,626 41,078 96,004 37,140

Repayments to Loan Fund Credit Account amounted to $59,620 in 1964-65 and $56,395 in 1965-66.

1964--65 $

103,876 4,225,638

2,576

4,332,090

No. 3-Territorial Rents .. Royalties .. Miscetlaneous

No. 4 Public Works-157,046 State Sawmill

157,046

24 No. 6-Fines •• 798 No. 7-Fees .•

783,802 No. 8-Departmental ]]3,336 No. 9-Miscellaneous

897,960

5,387,096

APPENDIX X.

STATEMENT OF REVENUE AND APPROPRIATED EXPENDITURE FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 1965-66. (Showing comparative figures for 1964-65).

AMOUNT PAID INTO CoNSOLIDATED REVENUE. APPROPRIATED EXPENDITURE.

Treasury Account. 1965-66.

$ $

120,672 4,518,076

2,293

130,099

1,823 557

892,306 107,199

4,641,041

130,099

1,001,885

5,773,025

1964-65.

$ Votes. 1,735,470 Salaries and Long Service Leave of Office Staff &c.

287,818 Travelling Expenses, Forage, Stores &c.

2,023,288

35,000 School of Forestry 7,100 Foresters' Quarters 2.700 Aircraft Patrol . . . . . . . .

10,000 Grant to " Save the Forests , Campaign Council.. 48,052 Pay-roll Tax . . . . . .

7,900 Mountain Gallery-Kalorama .. 41,700 Contribution to National Sirex Fund

6,000 Grant to Timber Promotion Committee .. 2,000 Forest Equipment Hire Account

----160,452

127,024 State Sawmill, Erica-Working Expenses .. 717,214 Utilization of Forest Produce

844,238 3,027,978 Total Votes

Special Appropriations-2,166,402 Forestry Fund • ..

26,000 Salaries-Commissioners

2,192,402

5,220,380 Total Votes and Special Appropriations . . . • 166,716 Balance-Excess of Revenue over Appropriated Expenditure

5,387,096

APPENDIX XI.

1964-65 $

148,978 Balance brought forward 1st July Add Intake for Year­

Authorized by Act No. 6254-2,166,046 Section 30 (2)

356 Section 63 (8) ---2,315,380 Available Funds

1,988,766 38,924 j0,332

131,426

2,209,448

Less Expenditure for the Year Forests Plantations Nurseries General

105,932 Balance carried forward 30th June

FoRESTRY FuND.*

1965-66. $ $

1,917,228 39,991 53,176

162,797

105,932

2,320,521 283

2,426,736

2,173,192

253,544

1965-66.

$ $

1,874,483 216,794

35,000 7,100

10,000 50,834 11,741 41,700

6,000

114,969 801,902

2,320,804 28,121

2,091,277

162,375

916,871

3,170,523

2,348,925

5,519,448 253,577

5,773,025

""" ....-

1964-65 $

81,992

7,974 Dr.

99,338

1,984 526 Dr.

174,814

470,448

9,002 444,690

11,238 54,818

990,196

1,165,010

460,272 11,058

464,182

11,634 52,428

20,000 ---1,019,574 ---

72,168 10,030 Dr.

79,846 1,588 1,864

----145,436

$ 469,776 160,772

630,548

365,280

265,268

42

APPENDIX XII.

AcT No. 6254-FoREST STOREs SusPENSE AccoUNT 1965-66.

(Showing comparative figures for 1964-65.)

Balance brought forward 1st July­

Stores Drums Repairs to Plant Manufactured Articles Fire Protection Plant and Equipment

Add Credits­

Stores Drums Repairs to Plant Manufactured Articles Fire Protection Plant and Equipment

Amount Available

Less Debits-

Stores Drums Repairs to Plant Manufactured Articles Fire Protection Plant and Equipment Transfer to Loan Fund Credit Account

Balance carried forward 30th June

Stores Drums Repairs to Plant Manufactured Articles Fire Protection Plant and Equipment

FORESTS PLANT AND MACHINERY FUND

Balance brought forward 1st July Add Plant Hire Charges Add Proceeds of Disposal

Amount Available Less Expenditure

Balance carried forward 30th June

1965-66.

1965-66 $ $

72,168 10,030 Dr.

79,846 1,588 1,864

407,735 10,029

458,903 13,305 38,173

385,251 7,026

425,381 14,169 43,565

94,652

145,436

928,145

1,073,581

875,392

7,027 Dr.

113,368 724

3,528 Dr. 198,189

$

265,268 139,267 14,839

419,374 175,040

244,334

1964-65. s $

18,096 1,168

19,264 120

34,698 4,412

58,344 11,494 11,870

818 50

10,528 1,854

19,384

134,068 20,842

$174,294

1964-65. 200

2,194 1,006 5,110

410 1,240

338 10,498 11,274

$21,772

1964-65. 308

160,254

$160,562

APPENDIX XIII.

STATE SAWMILL-ERICA.

Trading Account for the Year Ended 30th June, 1966. (Showing comparative figures for 1964-65).

Stock on Hand at beginning­Logs Timber

Steel ..

Wages Mill Supervision Log Purchases. . . . Haulage and Cartage Out Repairs and Renewals .. Fuel and Lubricants (Milling) Shop Charges .. Depreciation .. Plant Hire (Milling)

Gross Profit •.

1965-66. $ $

18,788 2,180

20,968 112

34,998 4,559

51,478 10,424 9,397

680 21

10,648 2,221

21,080

124,426 9,690

$155,196

1964-65. $ $

156,542 3,410

153,132 82

153,214

18,788 2,180 --20,968

112 21,080

$174,294

Sales-Timber .. .. .. .. .. Less Returns, Allowances and Discounts ••

Sundries, &c. . . .. .. .. Stock on Hand at end-

Logs .. .. .. .. Timber .. .. .. ..

Steel .. .. .. ..

Profit and Loss Account for the Year Ended 30th June, 1966. (Showing comparative figures for 1964-65).

Superintendence Insurance Payroll Tax Interest on Capital .. H.O. Supervision and Audit Fee Maintenance of Cottages Provision for Discounts

Net Profit

Adjustment . . . . Balance at end of year ..

1965-66. 200

2,067 1,061 5,191

410 318 584

9,831 710

$10,541

1964-65. 20,842

930

$21,772

Gross Profit .. Cottage Rentals

Profit and Loss Summary as at 30th June, 1966.

1965-66. 1964-65. 149,288 Balance at beginning of year

. . 160,964 11,274 Net Profit for year

$160,964 $160,562

These accounts arc subject to audit.

.. .. .. ..

.. ..

. . .. .. ..

.. ..

1965-66. $

145,606 6,937

138,669 1,066

14,207 1,162

15,369 92

$

139,735

15,461

$155,196

1965-66. 9,690

851

$10,541

1965-66. . • 160,254

710

$160,964

""" \.>.)

1964-65. $ $

Capital-123,214 Balance as at 1st July

2,638 125,852 Additions

2,928 Sundry Creditors

Profit and Loss Summary-149,288 Balance at commencement of year

308 Less : Adjustment

148,980 11,274 Add: Net Profit of the year

160,254

$289,034

APPENDIX XIII.-continued.

STATE SAWMILL-ERICA.

Comparative Balance-sheet as at 30th June, 1965 and 1966.

1965-66. $ $

125,852

160,254

160,254 710

125,852

5,183

160,964

$291,999

1964-65. $ $

15,334 2,638

17,972

Buildings-Value as at 1st July Additions

4,012 Less: Depreciation 13,960

14,566 Plant and Machinery 5,966 Less: Depreciation

8,600 948 Tramways and Rolling Stock 548 Less: Depreciation

400 14,300 Sundry Debtors

338 Less: Provision for Discounts 13,962

Stock on Hand-18,788 Logs .. 2,180 Timber

20,968 112

206,564 157,046

898

364,508

127,648 308

5,110 410

133,476

21,080

231,032

$289,034

Steel ..

Treasurer of Victoria-Balance at commencement of year Receipts paid to No. 4. Public Works . . . . Receipts paid to No. 9. Miscellaneous Rent of Quarters

Less: Working Expenses Adjustment .. Interest on Capital . . • . H.O. Supervision and Audit Fee

This Balance-sheet is subject to Audit.

1965-66. $ $

13,960

13,960 1,648

8,600 8,600

400 400

12,312

23,680 ,J:>. 584 ,J:>.

14,207 1,162

15,369 92

231,032 130,099

816

361,947

115,216

5,191 410

120,817

23,096

15,461

241,130

$291,999

45

APPENDIX XIV.

PROPOSED DISBURSEMENTS 1966-67 .

•

Items. Estimated Requirements. Forestry

Fund and Appropriations.

$'000. $'000.

Fire Protection Works .. . . . . 767 296 Silvicultural Works .. . . . . 280 132 Construction and Maintenance of Roads .. 691 491 Establishment and Maintenance of Plantations 1,066 68 Advances for Farm Forestry .. . . .. 20 . . Construction, Purchase, and Maintenance of

Residences and other Buildings . . .. 226 76 Purchase of Land . . . . . . .. 18 . . Purchase of Plant and Machinery .. . . 37 17 Salaries .. . . . . . . . . 2,474 2,392 Operating and Other Expenses . . .. 2,583 2,495

Totals . . . . . . .. 8,162 5,967

ESTIMATED RECEIPTS 1966-67.

Grazing, Occupation, Royalties, &c.

Sale of Sawn Timber ex State Sawmill

Sale of Departmental Produced Saw Logs, Firewood, Pulpwood, Poles, &c.

Miscellaneous Collections

Sales of Assets &c., Repayable to Loan Fund Credit Account

Totals ..

By Authority: A. C. BROOKS, Government Printer, Melbourne.

Amount Provided.

•

Loans.

$'000.

471 148 200 998

20

150 18 20 7 8

2,040

Total.

$'000.

767 280 691

1,066 20

226 18 37

2,399 2,503

8,007

$'000.

4,700

10

850

107

20

5,687

::r: t-~ 0 V)

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VICTORIA SCALE OF MILES

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