THE IMPORT TRADE. 65 



extinct in Anstralian watci-s. In prospect of the expansion of trade 

 with Sydney, however, this calamity to shi])ping slioukl bo averted, 

 and although a lower range of freights may be paid than in tlie ])ast' 

 there is every reason to believe that the actual tonnage roipiired will 

 be much larger. The charges made at the port of Sydney, although 

 lower than at either of the sister colonies, are now havin" a good 

 deal of attention, and the probabilities lie in the direction of lower rates. 

 The present tonnage charges are 4d. per ton in, one payment lujlding 

 good for any number of movements in and out for a period of six 

 months. The pilotage charges are 4d. each way, and £3 for each removal 

 within the harbour^ to which has to be added other importer.s' costs, 

 such as wharfage Is. 8d. per ton dead weight, on the assoc-iated 

 and Government wharfs, and by arrangement on private whai-fs. 

 Groods which may become subjected to '' imperfect entry " are fre- 

 quently laden with excessive charges in the matter of wharfage. 

 Cartage, 2s. per ton. each way in and out of store ; commission, 1 per 

 cent.; discount, 2^ per cent.; and exchange about 3.^ per cent. (00 

 days) comprise the most important charges attaching to imported goods. 

 In the case of transhipment the items of wharfage and cartage are 

 omitted, and that of 2s. per ton lighterage substituted, which is a 

 distinct advantage to the importer selling for export. Bonding and 

 store charges are made upon all goods which are not taken immediate 

 delivery of. The aggregate charges at the port of Sydney are the 

 lowest imposed at any port in Australia, except Newcastle, where con- 

 cessions are given in the way of remission of wharfage, which is under 

 the control of the Government. 



