(1813 - 1848)

Leichhardt originated from Prussia and was both a naturalist and explorer. When he arrived in Australia he was determined to explore this vast continent as much as possible. His first undertaking was a study of the flora, fauna and geology of Sydney and the Hunter region. He then went on alone to Newcastle and Moreton Bay. Following this he decided to join Thomas Mitchell on his trip to Port Essington in the Northern Territory, but this was delayed.

Instead of waiting around for Mitchell's expedition to get organised, he undertook the same journey with his own group in 1844. One member of that group was speared to death by Aborigines, but the others made it safely by the end of 1845. Port Essington had been named by Phillip Parker King in 1818. A settlement was established there in 1838, but only lasted until 1849.

Leichhardt's next plan was to travel across the continent from the east coast to the west. His first efforts failed, and he made a second attempt at it in 1848. This, however, proved the least successful of all, resulting in the disappearance of the entire group, all vanishing without trace. There can be no doubt that Leichhardt was one of the most successful travellers at this time in Australia, despite doubts about his reputation following his death.

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