45 
destroyed, however, and steps should be taken to prevent any interference 
with the forest growth that remains. Unfortunately the portion of the 
cave that has been explored has also been marred by the destruction of the 
stalagmitic and stalactitic growths. It is quite possible that, if the narrow 
passages leading from the explored parts were followed other caves might be 
discovered. Just outside the reserve a stream of limpid water flows out 
of the limestone, and along its course caves are likely to exist. Around 
Wilson’s and some other caves reserves have been made, but with one ex¬ 
ception no steps have been taken to preserve the wonderful and exceedingly 
beautiful results of Nature’s art that embellish these limestone caverns. 
It appears probable that what might be made an extremely valuable 
asset to the State is lying dormant in the Buchart caves. I have no doubt 
that if systematic search were made by following up the passages from the 
caves already known, and by exploring this great area for fresh caves, very 
valuable discoveries would be made, and there appears to be no reason why 
there should not be caves at Buchan quite as extensive and as beautiful as 
the famous Jenolan caves of New South Wales. 
As an attraction to tourists nothing could excel such caves if they are 
preserved in all their natural perfection. 
The Buchan limestone should be diligently explored for fresh caves, 
and if a reward each year for the best discovery of this kind were made 
the money would be well spent. But even more important than discovering 
such caves is the necessity for scrupulously preserving them from the outset 
from vandalism. When discovered—and it may mean tedious blasting or 
breaking away of narrow passages to explore for them—entrance gates 
should be provided, and the caves should be kept under lock and key until 
rhey could be lighted by electricity. They should have paths cut through 
them, and be thrown open for inspection without any risk of damage 
or deterioration. 
Very large sums of money have been profitably spent in this direction 
in the older State, and through a wise policy these natural features have 
been permanently preserved, while at the same time thousands of tourists 
enjoy their marvellous appearance. Good roads lead to them; steps and 
paths have been cut and made throughout the caves, so that they may be 
traversed with the least possible fatigue. An excellent hotel with extensive 
accommodation is provided. Electric lighting enables each remarkable di¬ 
versity in the draping of the caverns to be seen to the best advantage. 
Guides at moderate fees conduct the visitors through the labyrinths. The 
result is a large influx of visitors who contribute towards the prosperity of 
the community. 
A capital round trip would be by sea—for those who prefer it—to the 
Gippsland Lakes, and on to 'Bairnsdale; thence to Buchan to view the 
caves, returning via WalhalLa, when the Baiw Baw Mountains, 5,000 feet 
high, could be ascended, and back to Melbourne. 
At Buchan illimitable material for lime and cement-making exists, but 
until communication is improved these resources cannot be utilized 
The desirability of preserving and exploring the caves of Buchan has 
been forcibly urged by Dr. Howitt, Mr. J. Stirling, Mr. Herman, and by 
Mr. Kitson. Owing to the strenuous representations of Mr. Kitson, reser¬ 
vations have been made of areas enclosing some of the principal known 
caves. He has described manv of them, and has persistently striven for 
their reservation, protection, and for their further exploration. In urging 
the development of the Buchan caves, and that they should be carefully 
secured against further spoliation, I am only reiterating the views of pre¬ 
vious workers,- who have all been impressed with their beauty and their 
great possibilities as an attraction to tourists from all parts. 
[.Refort sent in 15th August, /pcqf.] 
