Yes sir, just regular masonry/construction sand where all the smaller stuff is sifted out. I've been experimenting with different stuff over the years, this worked the best so far. I think it has something to do with how much air is in the mix.
I've already taken a lot of seedling cuttings from the tray, but a month ago it was absolutely full of trees.
I wish I could, but I don't have access to any good pines near me sadly. I usually just order online, plant a few 100 and keep the ones that thrive.
Mostly Japanese black pine and Scots pines, Mugo pine. I'm sure JBP would grow great in Australia. I'm in Scandinavia so I tend to stick to the more hardy pines.