Flinders in Flinders
This week I was given a beautiful little book entitled “Matthew Flinders- Open Boat Voyages” It’s written by a regular contributor to SWS, Russell Kenery, but this was the first time I had seen this elegant publication. And what is particularly apt and satisfying is that the book was purchased in the Flinders Post Office on the Mornington Peninsular, and proceeds from the sale will go to support the Flinders Yacht Club Junior Sailing program. I like those sort of synergies.
In his introduction to the book, Simon McKeon AO writes,
“Russel Kenery believes Flinders brilliant achievements as a navigator and cartographer have overshaddowed his exceptional sailing skills. I agree and Its not before time that this monograph at last puts a focus on his prowess in open boats.”
There are four particular voyages covered in this thin volume
The 1795 Voyage from Sydney to Botany Bay in the 9ft TOM THUMB
The 1796 Voyage from Sydney to Lake Illawarra in the 14ft TOM THUMB II
The 1802 Voyage in Port Phillip in the 24ft Cutter from the INVESTIGATOR
The 1803 Voyage from Wreck Reef to Sydney in the 29ft Cutter from the PORPOISE
Flinders Village was named by George Bass after his friend, the explorer and British naval officer Matthew Flinders. First settled in in 1854, the forerunner to the post office where the book came from, opened on 7 March 1863.
The accounts of each voyage make great reading. Russell brings the history to life with illustrations and quotations. Beautifully produced, this little edition will be cherished in my collection, far more than the earnest, weighty biography by Grantlee Kieza that we reviewed earlier this year.
To get hold of a copy contact the Flinders Yacht Club, Commodore, info@flindersyc.com.au or the excellent Bass & Flinders Maritime Museum, George Town, TAS Phone (03)6382 3792 www.bassandflindersmuseum.com.au. Or you could just wander into the Flinders Post Office!