Here stands a bust. It commemorates Vice Admiral John Hunter. He governed New South Wales.
John Hunter was born in Scotland in 1737. He joined the Royal Navy. Hunter rose through the ranks. He became a skilled sailor and navigator.
In 1786, Hunter was appointed captain of HMS Sirius. This ship was part of the First Fleet. The fleet sailed to establish a British colony in Australia. Hunter’s role was vital. He was also designated to become Governor if Phillip died or was absent.
The First Fleet arrived in Botany Bay in 1788. Hunter helped explore and map the area. He charted the Parramatta River. This exploration marked early contact with the Wangal Clan. Bradley’s log mentions Hunter having breakfast during this contact. This is remembered in the name Breakfast Point.
Hunter sailed to the Cape of Good Hope for supplies. He circumnavigated the globe. The Sirius later wrecked off Norfolk Island. Hunter faced a court-martial. He was honourably acquitted.
Hunter became the second Governor of New South Wales in 1795. He succeeded Arthur Phillip. Hunter aimed to reform the colony. He faced challenges from the military. They controlled trade and exploited convicts. John Macarthur led powerful interests against Hunter.
Hunter’s efforts to restore civil administration were difficult. Anonymous letters accused him of abuses. He was recalled to England in 1799. Hunter defended himself in a published pamphlet. It became a valuable historical document.
Hunter supported explorations by Flinders and Bass. He sent specimens of Australian wildlife to England. These included the platypus.
Later in life, Hunter commanded HMS Venerable. The ship ran aground. Hunter was again acquitted by a court-martial. He was promoted to Vice-Admiral. John Hunter died in London in 1821.
The Hunter River and Hunter Valley bear his name. So does Hunters Hill in Sydney. The John Hunter Hospital also commemorates him. A postage stamp honored him in 1986. HMAS Hunter, a new frigate, is named after him.
This bust reminds us of Hunter’s contributions. He was an explorer, governor and naturalist. He shaped early New South Wales.