Carole Wilkinson (text) and Prue Pittock (illustrator), River to Bay: Victoria’s Maritime History, Wild Dog, August 2023, 37 pp., RRP $24.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781742036168
Kulin Nation country is abundant with waterways essential to the way the traditional owners who have lived there for more than 60,000 years. In 1802, the governor of New South Wales, Governor King sent to ship Lady Nelson to explore the south coast of Australia. The waterways the Europeans discovered were the same ones that were integral to the Kulin Nation. This was the beginning of the confrontational contact of First Nations peoples and Europeans in Victoria.
River to Bay, relates the European maritime history of Victoria from 1802 to today. The history is interesting. We discover that the early settlers were unable to discover fresh water. They resorted to filtering sea water by burying barrels with holes drilled into them before covering them in the sand. This allowed sea water to wash through the barrels and leave salty but still drinkable water. The ‘Fever Ships’ of 1839 to 1852 were shocking as fleas, lice, cockroaches, and rats carrying typhoid were brought to the colony. A vaccine to combat typhoid was developed in 1896. There are so many interesting facts to uncover.
Prue Pittock provides imaginative and interesting details through her drawings. She illustrates what’s inside a fever ship. The map of Port Phillip provides context. The 1803-1804 map of the tents, settler huts, parade ground, gun battery, and all other aspects of settlement might send students into creative stories or more research. The settlement’s map filled with sheep make readers reflect on the history of sheep in Australia. There is so much to enjoy and learn.
River to Bay, Victoria’s Maritime History is a welcome introduction to the development of Melbourne and Victoria. Maybe a follow up could be the maritime history of the other states. It is a welcome addition to school libraries, especially in Victoria.
Suitable for ages 7+
Reviewed by Susanne Gervay