The Explorers of Australia and their Life-work

isahis torical account written in the early 20th century. Thebookdocuments the significant achievements and contributions of early Australian explor ers, emphasizing their perseverance against the formidable challenges posed by the Australian landscape. It aims to provide insight into the lives and expeditions of these pioneering figures who helped open up the continent for settlement and development. The opening of the book outlines the au thor's intent to celebrate and record the endeavors of these explorers, offer ing a preview of their individual stories through a collection of portraits. Favenc discusses the importance of exploration in shaping Australia, partic ularly highlighting the mystery surrounding LudwigLeichhardt,whosefate remains unknown. The introduction sets the stage for detailed accounts of various explorers, emphasizing how their trials laid the groundwork for fu ture generations and contributed to the nation's prosperity. The narrative illustrates both the physical and psychological challenges these men faced in their quest to traverse the continent and discover its potential.

To him is due the honour, without dispute or cavil, of being the first discoverer of an Australian river flowing into the interior. For some reason he has never received adequate recognition of his important explorations, and he is well nigh forgotten by the people of New South Wales, the state that has bene fited most by hislabours. AfterOxley'ssecondexpedition, hisnameappears to havebeenovershadowedby his officialsuperior's. Yethisworkwasinvari ably successful, and his labour in the field unremitting. Evans was born in England, at Warwick, in 1778. When a young man he went to the Cape of GoodHope,whereheobtainedanappointmentinthe dockyard, and while there he married his first wife, Janet Melvill. In 1802 he was appointed Deputy Surveyor-General, and came to Australia in H.M.S