Many parts of Bellingen were cleared, as the following photograph demonstrates.
A report by the District Forester in 1912 not only itemised the state of the forests in early 20th century but also looked back to the 19th century.
click here for PAGE 16 OF THE FORESTERS REPORT 1912
As this is a poor quality image due to the technology of the 20th century, some points are reproduced below
"The biggest hardwood recorded for the Bellinger River is said to be a flooded gum, standing on Greer's conditional purchase at Fernmount. Only the burnt butt now remains, it measures 66 feet at girth at ground level."
"The original forest, according to Bellingen pioneers, was almost park like in its growth, and low lateral branching was thereby permitted."
The planning for restoration could not replicate the past and therefore concentrated on what could be achieved within the constraints of climate change, taking into account risk of fires an the most effective corridors for wildlife migrating south as temperatures rose.