Vernacular Same.-" Grey Gum," because of the dull grey appearance 
of the bark. This species is fortunate in having but one general name. To distinguish 
it from Eucalyptus punctata, a Grey Gum to which it is most closely related, the name 
" Small-fruited Grey Gum " is suggested. 
Aboriginal Name." Warrimbawg " of those of the Hastings River (Forest 
Ranger George R. Brown). 
Tim\}e\\ Characteristics. It is so much like ironbark in appearance that it 
is difficult to discriminate between the two timbers. That will be the best guide to its 
appearance. An export would usually detect the substitution for ironbark (if he 
suspected any substitution), by noting that a chip of grey gum is more brittle than 
that of ironbark. It also cuts less horny. Nevertheless, the two timbers are wonder- 
fully alike, and for many purposes grey gum is an efficient substitute for ironbark, foi 
it is remarkably durable. Its inferior strength, as compared with ironbark, precludes 
its use as girders of any length, and when substituted for ironbark in sleepers, the bolt;? 
and spikes work loose in them. I would encourage its use in every possible way ib.i 
wood-blocks. Tho chief objectors to its use at the present time arc the saw-millers 
themselves, ao the logs often contain gum-scabs or gum -veins 1 .. At present, when 1 
unblemished timber is insisted upon for wood-blocks, a saw-miller cannot afford to out 
up grey gum (although it frequently turns out unblemished), Vesausc of the risk of 
having it condemned. I have often spoken on this subject in connection v/ith 
bloodwood, and would emphasise the opinion that wood blocks should not bo 
condemned because they contain a few gum-scabs or veins. Such excess of care 
practically leads to great waste of really valuable timber. 
Principal uses Recommended for paving-blocks, as already stated. It is 
in high repute for posts, having excellent records when employed in this very trying 
situation. I have ccen it used for folloes and for shingles. It is very largely used as 
an ironbark substitute for railway sleepers, &c., which fact is in itself testimony to its 
excellence. 
The late Mr. J. V. de Co quo wrote of it : 
" This timber must not be confounded with the ' Blue Gum ' (E. saligna). It is a remarkably 
closo grained, durable timber, and except as regards strength (to which it is inferior to ironbark), it 
makes an admirable substitute, particularly in the erection of large beam bridges. It is very like red 
ironbark in general appearance, and is often substituted for it. An exparienced man can however detect 
the difference owing to the shortnsss of grain. A chip of grey gum bent between the fingers will snap 
instantly. The quality of this timber vaiies considerably like most hardwoods in different districts. I 
found that the best variety is found in the Hawkesbury district, particularly around Wyong and 
Oooranbong. Grey gum from these places have a record of thirty years in bridge members. For general 
building work it is hardly so suitable as some of the pale hardwoods ; it is hard to plane, and in scantling 
sizes subject to crack and open. As piles or girders I consider it n<>xt to ironbark, and one of the best of 
our timbeis." 
and Grey Glim. With the view of economising Ironbark, various 
suggestions were made, including the calling for tenders of sleepers of various sizes. 
Under date 3rd July, 1889, the Secretary for Railways wrote that the Engineer for 
