10 
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF THE 
them shelter. The slope above the lake is naturally fitted for producing 
one of the grandest scenes in the grounds. At present it is one of the 
most painful to an artistic eye, as it is planted with stiff formal rows 
of trees seven or eight in number, a line of Araucaria excelsa being- 
followed by an avenue of Finns halepensis, succeeded by another row 
of Araucaria excelsa; then a line of Araucaria Cunninghamii, backed 
by yet another of Araucaria Bidwilli ; the whole presenting a 
monotonous appearance. This extensive space with which I propose to 
deal, when time and means will allow, can be converted into a 
picturesque and scientifically valuable pinetum, thus fulfilling one of 
the botanical classifications which I invariably keep steadily in view. 
The lines of trees alluded to, though the specimens are of considerable 
size, can be successfully removed to other portions of the grounds ; and 
I may here point out, that the lifting and removal of large trees, which 
have been freely carried out by me, fulfil a twofold purpose, by clearing 
the ground where the trees occupied an incongruous position, for future 
operations, and by at once producing the intended effect in the spots to 
which they are conveyed. As stated in a former report, the band-stand 
should be near the water. I would suggest that it be placed when 
opportunity offers, at the upper portion of the lake, near the Melaleuca 
scrub. The Italian Consul has been kind enough to send home for plans 
of a suitable stand. In this portion of the Gardens, as before stated, 
the orders Magnoliacece and JEricacece would thrive well and form 
appropriate planting for this spot. 
The proper drainage, and reticulation of the water supply from the 
Yarra, is a most important matter, not only with respect to Government 
House grounds, but the Botanic Gardens also. The poor character of 
the soil in many places necessitates it. The banks of the new Reservoir 
in the Botanic Gardens (which has been estimated to be capable of 
supplying 250,000 gallons twice a day) have been planted with Buffalo 
grass. This reservoir will be of very great service; it will be kept 
filled by an engine of great power substituted for the 6 h.p. one at 
present in use. In seasons of drought its value will be immense. The 
engine will draw the supply a from the Yarra, the water of which is, 
however, only fit for gardening purposes, there being no supply of Yan 
Yean in the place, the latter having been cut off before I took office. 
The residents in the Gardens occasionally contrive to secure a little rain 
water from their houses; but when that fails, they are forced to use the 
polluted water from the Yarra. In such extensive Gardens, the resort 
of thousands, especially during the summer season, there should be an 
