Read a Sydney Gazette report on the arrival of the Macquaries. Discover how names came to be assigned to George Street and Hyde Park.

Explore Governor Macquarie’s preferred residence while learning more about the early colony through a virtual tour of Old Government House at Parramatta.

Colonial tours, initiatives and legacy

Read from Macquarie’s journal on his Tour of Inspection to the interior of the colony (areas surrounding Sydney) or to New Discovered Country (Bathurst Plains).

Macquarie set up the first institution for people with mental illness, approved a female orphanage by the Parramatta River and initiated Australia Day celebrations.

Consider Macquarie’s farewell speech and reports of his departure. The Sydney Gazette announced his death in 1824, and his tomb refers to him as the Father of Australia.

Interaction with Aboriginal peoples

Find the earliest surviving record of a civil action by an Aboriginal person in an Australian court, information on the first Aboriginal feast day at Parramatta to meet with clans/tribes, and later interactions at George’s Head.

A proclamation from 1816 that announced a reward for the capture of 10 Aboriginals, deemed outlaws, was revoked later that year.

Objects and artefacts

Examine artefacts such as Lachlan Macquarie’s writing chest or Elizabeth’s earrings. Enter the Lachlan Macquarie room to explore more.

Research

Begin your own research. Use the Laptop wrap: Historical investigation or the resource Research Zone: Senior History (logon required).