Central Victorian Apiarists Association Inc
	Registered Number A0016607F		
President : Brian Rich	Secretary : Ian Fenselau	Treasurer : Bronwyn Shalders	
73, Holyrood Street	60-70 Buckland Street	RMB 1520	
Maryborough. Vic 3465	White Hills. Vic 3550	Mt Cole. Vic 3377	
Phone 103154613227	Phone 103154484384	Phone 1031 535432M	
Email fnselau@iinet.net.au

January 25th 04
Ms Michelle Cross Native 
Vegetation Inquiry Productivity Commission,

Dear Madam,
The Central Vic Apiarists Association wish to convey to your Inquiry, some concerns that we have regarding the implementation of Native Vegetation regulations in Central Victoria. The retention of native flora is of prime importance to our members as the majority of our honey production is from this source, both on public and private lands, and we welcome your Inquiry.

The CVAA concerns relate to what we perceive as double standards on the part of both Govt, and local Council authorities. We support current regulations protecting native vegetation including the replacement of trees removed at a 10/1 ratio, but consider that this principle should apply to all bodies, not only private landholders.

There have been numerous examples within our region of native vegetation being removed or damaged by authorities, eg, alteration or widening of roads, beside or under power lines, dump sites for road works, wild fire prevention either roadside or rail, and yet no replacement of such vegetation has been attempted.

If private landholders are expected to wear accountability, and suffer the imposition of revegetation regulations, so should local authorities, and Govt bodies. Goodwill and better compliance from landholders would be achieved if authorities in our region improved their practices.

Thankyou for this opportunity to express our concerns,
Yours Sincerely

Ian C Fenselau 
CVAA Secretary.