Timber.

Tuart timber is extremely hard, twisted and curled in the grain. It is very valuable where great strength is required for shipbuilding, combing of hatches, engine-bearers, framing for railway carriages, carriage-wheels, &c. It shrinks very little in seasoning, and will not split during the process. It has been known to be exposed over thirty years without being affected, will resist the Teredo navalis, and it is the strongest timber known. Large-size planks and scantling, from 20 to 40 feet long, and 2 feet wide, can be cut from this timber.

Sandalwood is largely exported to Singapore and China, and some to India, the last year's exports being about 4700 tons, valued at £47,000.

Raspberry-jam wood is highly scented, and adapted for manufacturing purposes. It is beautiful hard-grained timber, and will polish equal to Spanish mahogany, being very rich in colour, and very useful for all descriptions of furniture and fancy cabinetware. Continental and British manufacturers ought to secure samples of this timber from the Court.

Jarrah and karri timber are largely exported from the colony. Planks, scantling, piles, and every description, can be had all lengths and sizes. The Harbour Trust of Victoria are now using jarrah in preference to their local timber. The principal railways, marine works, wharves, jetties, and telegraph lines in South Australia are constructed of jarrah and karri. Large quantities have also been exported to India, New Zealand, and the Cape.

It has been proved, from practical experience, that these timbers are impervious to the white ant and Teredo navalis (or sea-worm); and they have been used in South Australia and this colony from twenty-five to forty years in marine and land works without showing any signs of decay.

Specimens from the above are now being exhibited in the Court and outside the building. This timber is equal to English oak and Indian teak, and it is also classed at English Lloyd's for shipbuilding purposes for twelve years.