1837

Despatch to Lord Glenelg, Secretary of State for the colonies from Governor Bourke 9 Mar:

 

“I am bound to state, that further reflection, and the advantages of personal observation, afforded by a recent excursion to Twofold Bay and the neighbouring country, have more than ever impressed me with the correctness of the opinions expressed in my dispatch of Jul, 1834. On the excursion alluded to I found the greater part of the vast tract of fertile land lying between the country of St. Vincent and Twofold Bay, depastured by flocks and herds attended by shepherds and stock men ; the pastures, already, contributing largely to the wealth of the colony, and exceeding in importance many of the districts where land is disposable by sale or on lease. An export of live stock, from Twofold Bay to Van Dieman’s Land had commenced, and is likely to increase…I would propose that a township be marked out at Twofold Bay…In the event of a township being established at Twofold Bay, it would be desirable to form a road from thence to Murard Plains, a part of which would pass over a rocky range of mountains. The remoteness of this work would render it a very desirable employment for the convicts”