The "Plains of Promise" 1841 - 1870: Exploration of, and pioneer settlement in north-west Queensland

Abstract

This thesis examines the exploration of, and pioneer settlement in, that part of north-uest Queensland immediately adjacent to the Albert River, Although European contact with the Gulf region may be dated from the visit of Willem Oensz in 1606, the period examined in detail here begins uith the ex ploratory uork of Oohn Lort Stokes (Duly - August 1841), It concludes uith the effective abandonment of the initial pastoral and toun settlement in 1870. The interpretation expounded con centrates primarily upon the role of human perception of the en vironment of a region and its potential for development as a factor in determining the progress of settlement. It is based on an extensive survey of explorers* journals and the related proposals for colonies in this part of northern Australia and on an examination of the Scottish Australian Investment Company’s letterbooks and various government records Show more